Loading

Surface Design

bespoke design for brands, (interior) architects, and colour lovers

You believe design should be meaningful, not disposable. So do I. Kukka offers textile and surface design that adds depth to your brand, through colour, research and material awareness.

Fair wages, ecological responsibility and accessibility are part of the process, not an afterthought. My work honours heritage while staying contemporary. It makes an impact without shouting, balancing vibrancy and tranquillity.

A surface design has the ability to bring together the purpose, personality and uniqueness of your brand into an elegant and meaningful symbol. This symbol can be of great value to your business over many years. Think of Marimekko’s Unikko (poppy) pattern that defines the brand’s image since 1964. Or Burberry’s iconic check pattern and Chanel’s signature tweed fabrics from the 1920s.

I understand how patterns communicate and build identity. From unique pieces to complete collections, I help you explore the full potential of textile and surface design.

Since 2010, I’ve worked closely with brands, designers and cultural partners to develop bespoke textiles, surface designs and material concepts that spark curiosity, leave a lasting impression and invite deeper engagement with design.

Outcomes may include:

  • Custom prints or jacquards
  • Colour and material strategies
  • Site-specific textile pieces
  • Concept development informed by research

Always tailored, always colour-led.

Every project is different. That’s why we begin with a conversation. Based on your goals and context, I create a clear proposal with timelines, budget and deliverables.

The process is collaborative and flexible, with space for reflection and refinement.

Why Kukka

I began my career in 2008 as an in-house designer in mainstream fashion. Over time, I grew disillusioned with how little value was placed on people and products. Garments made by many skilled hands were treated as mere trade, with trends favoured over innovation or sustainability. Too much was copied or watered down in the name of marketability.

After seven years, I felt a strong urge to redefine my role. For me, design is not a commodity, but a way to create positive impact. I do this by exploring the role of colour within design and by working with clients and industries who share that vision.

The name of my studio, Kukka, means “blossom” in Finnish. It reflects how I see design: as a natural metaphor for growth, transformation and renewal. I use colour to capture that spirit and support a world that flourishes.

With a background in communication, fashion and over a decade in textiles, I use colour to connect people, stories and materials in meaningful and evocative ways. I push the boundaries of colour application, from traditional techniques to biodesign, and translate research into tactile, thoughtful design.

That’s great, but what do clients have to say about Kukka?

Wondering who shared these kind words?

request my portfolio

Take a glance at my designs

Request a free consultation

Get in touch today and receive a free consultation.

Request a consultation

F.A.Q.
What is surface design?
I define surface design as any type of artwork (pattern, motif, illustration) that can be applied to a surface – everything from fabric and wallpaper to ceramics and glass. Surface designs can be realised as prints, weaves, knits, coatings and textures. Sometimes the material is an integral part of the surface design, other times surface design is applied to an existing material or product.
What is the purpose of surface design?
The practical purpose of surface design is to improve the visual appearance and/or functionality of your product. The bigger goal is to contribute to the visual and emotional identity of your brand.
What are your prices for bespoke surface and textile design?
There’s no straightforward answer. A commissioned piece for an individual differs in cost from a design or full collection for a brand or conceptual work for an exhibition. The best approach is to simply get in touch with me.
Do you also offer ready-made designs?
I offer a small collection of ready-made designs available under a non-exclusive licence, allowing unlimited metres/units/items for sale (no resale). Get in touch with me to browse the collection.
Do you work with buy-outs or licenses?
I work with both exclusive and non-exclusive licences. The licence fee can be structured as a one-time fee, a recurring fee, royalties, or a combination of a fixed fee with royalties. In some cases, a project may call for a full buy-out of the design, with a fee agreed upon for the transfer of copyright.
I have waste streams in my company that I want to utilise. Can you help?
These are exactly the kinds of projects I get especially excited about! I’m passionate about material research and finding innovative applications to make the most of existing resources.
I would like to know more about custom fabric printing. Can you help?
Certainly! Sign up for Kukka’s quarterly newsletter and receive my Ultimate Checklist for Printing Textiles. This in-depth, 38-page guide covers all the essentials for anyone interested in custom fabric printing.
Do you offer production or manufacturing?
I focus on design and prototyping. For production, I collaborate with specialised partners and can help you connect if needed. In my atelier, I explore materials through hands-on techniques such as screen printing, hand dyeing and more. Feel free to schedule a free consultation to discuss what’s possible.
Can you also advise on colour strategy without a full design project?
Yes. I offer standalone consultancy for colour and material direction.
Do you give interviews, talk or lectures?
This isn’t a main focus of my work, but I’m happy to consider requests that align with my practice.
Have another question?
Feel free to contact me—I’m happy to help and will make sure your question is added to this FAQ.

Would you like to collaborate?

Get in touch