Habitare Pro explores the role of design in driving competitiveness

Habitare, the leading furniture, design and interiors event in the Nordic countries, returns to the Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre from 2–6 September 2026. This year’s professional programme, Habitare Pro, explores how design drives business transformation, internationalisation and sustainable growth.

The 2026 theme, Plot Twists, explores design and the built environment as constantly evolving landscapes where unexpected turns create new ideas, collaborations and business opportunities. The theme is reflected throughout the programme, from keynote talks to immersive installations.

Habitare Pro brings together international keynote speakers, expert discussions, workshops and networking opportunities. Topics range from design, architecture and housing to renovation, spatial design, storytelling, future materials, the circular economy and creativity as a source of competitive advantage.

This year’s speakers include the Copenhagen-based design studio All the Way to Paris, Kallesø Architects, Petrus Palmér, founder of HEM, and Erkka Hirvonen, founder of Runo Hotels. Saturday’s keynote features Belgrade-born, Paris-based designer, photographer and artist Ana Kraš, whose multidisciplinary practice bridges design, art and visual culture.

Friday’s architecture programme focuses on the future of the built environment and sustainable design. New for 2026 is Build Lab, an exhibition area dedicated to innovation in construction, renovation, materials and building solutions.

The professional programme also includes Pro Design Talks, the Habitare Pro Lounge, the international networking platform EventsPRO and Nordic Quarters, showcasing current trends in Nordic design and architecture. During the event, several Helsinki design companies will open their showrooms to visitors in collaboration with Helsinki Design Week.

The Plot Twists theme extends beyond the conference programme. Kino Konepaja, created with Cinemafix, Bolon and Genelec, transforms part of the exhibition hall into a cinema where design, architecture and audiovisual experiences converge.

Over the past few years, Habitare has evolved into an important platform for design-led business. Its programme highlights the growing role of design in strengthening competitiveness, accelerating innovation and supporting international growth. In Finland, design is increasingly recognised as a strategic business investment rather than simply the final stage of product or service development.

In 2025, Habitare welcomed more than 43,000 visitors and over 500 companies and organisations. The 2026 edition continues to strengthen Helsinki’s position as one of Northern Europe’s leading meeting places for design, interiors and architecture.

Design Forum Finland is the official partner of Habitare Pro 2026.

Photo: Habitare Protos 2026 / Aava Eronen