It would feel strange to live in an entirely white home: inside a fashion designer’s color-filled apartment
The home of Marleena, known for her dresses, is a cozy two-room apartment in Helsinki’s Kallio neighborhood, reflecting a love of color. In this home, clothes are meant to be on display!
At the first apartment viewing, Marleena Lehtonen was somewhat unsure about the area. None of her friends lived in Helsinki’s Kallio neighborhood at the time.
Nearly seven years ago, when Marleena and Ville Happo were looking for a new home, apartment prices in Kallio were much more affordable than they are today. The shift from a somewhat overlooked district to a hipster hotspot happened quickly once the younger generation discovered the neighborhood. These days, the city’s energy is ever-present in these streets.
Luckily, Marleena and Ville fell in love with this well-organized two-room apartment. Its rough brick wall, beautifully glazed tile stoves, and interior doors sandblasted down to bare wood sealed the deal.
Although the apartment already had a lot going for it, it needed a few updates before they moved in. Ville’s father, a construction foreman, and his uncle painted all the surfaces, replaced the trim, and tore out the old kitchen. This took just one week.
“I’ve always loved colors, and I’d find it strange to live somewhere that’s entirely white.”
They had help from an interior architect they knew. Encouraged by their advice, Marleena and Ville chose a blueberry-blue kitchen, brass bar handles, and solid oak open shelves with brass brackets. Six years later, they’re still happy with the result.
Over time, this Kallio home has become very dear to the couple.
Marleena, you run your own clothing brand, Lili Marleena. How does your work as a fashion designer show up in your home?
My studio is still connected to my parents’ house in Kulosaari, and that’s where I meet most of my clients. From time to time, though, I’ll schedule client visits here in Kallio. During those meetings, our bedroom doubles as a fitting room for sample garments.
As a fashion professional, how do you store your clothes at home?
I wanted a solution with plenty of space for my garments. Ville’s father built it in Rovaniemi based on my design, and the rack system arrived in Helsinki packed neatly in a ski bag. Because the clothes are out in the open rather than hidden in a closet, the racks have to stay organized at all times.
What’s your relationship with color?
I’ve always loved colors, and I’d find it strange to live somewhere that’s entirely white. My childhood home was always colorful, and I’ve definitely inherited my mom’s love of color in home decor. I’d also say my years in Italy have had a big impact on how passionately I embrace color.
When your apartment features a standout built-in detail, you can create harmony by echoing its tone throughout the decor.
Which of you decides where the furniture goes?
Ville and I met as students in Turku. The first time I visited him, I noticed how stylish and tidy his place was. Now that we live together, we make most decisions jointly. Our tastes are similar, so we rarely clash when decorating.
What’s your take on consumerism?
Practically everything in our home is handmade or recycled. Ville’s family is full of skilled makers, which is how our dining table came to be, crafted by his cousin. Their family also trades furniture among themselves. Our old dining table now serves as Ville’s parents’ coffee table with shortened legs. The Lokki lamp in our living room is technically Ville’s sister’s, but it’s on long-term loan to us. We buy very little new home decor and only after careful consideration. We’d rather spend on experiences, like good meals and travel.
Where’s your favorite spot at home?
I never would have guessed I’d say this, but our old brown leather sofa in the living room is my favorite piece of furniture. Ville got it as a teen in exchange for a paint job he did for a friend. The sofa just gets better over time as the leather softens. It’s high-quality, comfortable, and occupied every evening for lounging. It feels like a cozy hug. After a tough day, my favorite way to relax is to stretch out on that couch and browse online.
What does a perfect moment at home look like?
A leisurely weekend, a tidy home, Ville’s home-cooked meal, and a glass of wine—those are the ingredients. We love hosting brunches and evenings with friends, though we haven’t been able to during the pandemic. We’re excited to invite everyone back around our table soon.
Is this Kallio home your dream home too?
We’ve slowly built up the decor, and we love it here. Being near the metro brings everything within reach, and we’ve really enjoyed living in this location.
Would you change anything in your decor?
I’m happy with our apartment as it is, but in our next home, I plan to be even bolder with color.
