Nordic apartments are terrifically self-sufficient. As with much of Europe they are small but my, are they charming. In Finland, it’s not unusual to have a small personal sauna, or private balcony neatly lodged within a medium sized home; and it’s not solely the amenities, layouts are influenced as well. Every space is accounted for, given purpose and function. That is the beauty of good design – the simplicity that arises from a well thought out solution. This philosophy whether culturally inherent or masterfully adopted is practiced by many design elites, and it’s always a treat to see how the end results manifest itself. One of my reigning favourites is the French design brand Hartô.
The brainchild of Alexandre Mulliez paired with Pierre-François Dubois, Hartô specializes in contemporary home décor, furniture, lighting, accessories, and lovely pieces of interest. What makes this brand so special is two fold. First its approach to colour, creating jovial interiors, which are bound to excite parents and little ones alike; and second is the collaborative environment between designers and their customers, striving for the perfect balance, which shows in their work.
Although Hartô is a young company, established in 2011, this vibrant brand won me over, when I discovered the Gaston wall secretary. I was so pleased to find that this stylish desk provided an elegant entrance solution, well out of reach for those little fingers! While some items can carry price tags upward of 2.000€, generally speaking, figures are more moderate. The Luce pendant light will set you back 99€, while the Honoré desk, made of solid oak will value at 1.000€. Well worth it though, considering they are built to last.
Hartô Design; hartodesign.fr, +331 83 56 45 47
Tips & Perks
Online Shopping
Price – moderate décor accessories to large furniture, range from 19€ upwards of 2K€
Atmosphere – easy to navigate site, multiple resellers and points of purchase
Age appropriate from 0 years
