Joiku Ski & Lake Chalets is a newly completed complex of 17 luxurious villas, located in the heart of Finnish Lapland. The interior design of the standout flagship villa, The House of Northern Lights, was curated by Finnish Design Shop Studio.
- Project: The House of Northern Lights
- Location: Ylläs, Finland
- Completion: 2024
- Gross area: 149 m2
- Main architect: Architect Takkunen
- @thehouseofnorthernlights
THE NATURE OF LAPLAND has inspired countless works of art over the centuries. Completed in October 2024, nestled near the Ylläs fells in Finland, The House of Northern Lights is itself an ode to this unique environment – its six-meter glass wall framing a dreamlike view of the surrounding landscape.
Standing tall by the waters of Lake Äkäslompolo, The House of Northern Lights is the luxurious flagship of Joiku Ski & Lake Chalets. Designed to host even larger groups in absolute comfort, this architectural gem by Architect Takkunen embodies the essence of Lapland – sophisticated, serene, and deeply connected to nature.
With warm wood surfaces and a rich, atmospheric color palette, The House of Northern Lights exudes understated elegance. The neutral tones provide a sophisticated stage for the bold architecture and ethereal views to take the spotlight. Finnish Design Shop Studio brought this Scandinavian-inspired interior design to life.
This newly finished vacation home – now welcoming visitors – is owned by Tuomas Mäkelä, co-founder of Bo LKV, and a group of his friends, also active in the real estate industry. Design Stories had the pleasure to sit down with Mäkelä, as well as interior designers Maija Rasila and Riikka Soini-Ferraguto from Finnish Design Shop Studio. Discover this dream getaway with us – and don’t miss the booking link at the end of the article!
Hi there Tuomas, how did you become part of the Journey of Joiku resort and The House of Northern Lights?
“I fell for Lapland and its nature during the pandemic when we were exploring Finland instead of traveling abroad. Even then, I envisioned being part of creating something fresh and exciting in the Lapland Second Home market.
In 2022, Joonas Ankkuri, a developer I knew, was assembling a team for a project in Lapland. I joined to bring the creative vision to life. Originally, we secured a plot in Levi for another project, but fate had other plans. Through Bo LKV’s agent, Tanja Sotka, we discovered this breathtaking lakeside location. It was too special to pass up, so we pivoted and decided to build Joiku in Äkäslompolo, Ylläs.”
Tuomas, what makes staying at The House of Northern Lights so special?
“A stay at The House of Northern Lights is a truly unique experience in every season. In winter, the house is the ultimate front-row seat for admiring the Northern Lights through its expansive glass walls. The ski trail across the lake and into the fells starts right next to the house, and the slopes are just moments away.
In summer, the lakeside setting opens up endless opportunities to enjoy various activities – whether it’s paddleboarding on the lake or simply unwinding by the shore. Spring, summer, and autumn are perfect for exploring the surrounding nature on foot or e-biking to the felltops.
“A stay at The House of Northern Lights is a truly unique experience in every season.”
The resort also features a lakeside sauna with breathtaking views, and we plan to keep an ice hole open in winter for the bravest souls to take a dip. The House of Northern Lights itself has a cozy sauna and a heated outdoor jacuzzi – perfect for soaking under the Northern Lights in winter or the Midnight Sun in summer. We’re also crafting a traditional Finnish laavu on-site, a fireside haven where guests can grill salmon and roast weenies while taking in the atmosphere.”
Maija Rasila, how did Finnish Design Shop Studio become part of this project?
“We’ve partnered with Tuomas in the past, and this project felt like a natural extension of our previous collaborations. Designing for such a carefully thought-out property in a completely new setting was an exciting opportunity. The project came together effortlessly, as we immediately shared a common vision for the outcome. The impressive architecture and breathtaking nature also set a clear tone for the interior design.”
“We focused on natural materials and made sure the magnificent views were an integral part of the design.”
Did you and Riikka visit the site in person, or was the design created remotely?
“This project was done entirely remotely, which is quite common for us – we handle design projects across Finland. By the time we joined the project, construction was underway, and the surface materials had already been chosen.
Thanks to detailed documentation and remote meetings, the design process went smoothly via screen. Distance isn’t an issue for us, even when it comes to furniture deliveries, which we can handle seamlessly no matter the location.”
Maija and Riikka, what was the creative vision behind the interior design of The House of Northern Lights?
Maija: “The client envisioned a space that was both cozy and elegant, blending Finnish and Nordic design elements. Our goal was to achieve a warm, nature-inspired atmosphere while allowing the surrounding landscape to take center stage.
The materials reflect simplicity and authenticity, following a Scandinavian aesthetic that complements the building's clean architecture. We focused on natural materials and made sure the magnificent views were an integral part of the design. Wool, wood, and stone were our core choices – timeless materials that ground the space in Finland’s natural beauty.”
Riikka: “Nordic design set the tone for the project, but we also wanted to infuse it with international influences and a sense of exceptional quality. This vision came to life through the use of rich dark wood and carefully curated furnishings that embody timeless, understated luxury.”
What are your favorite aspects of this destination?
Maija: “The cozy yet striking open kitchen and living area, where breathtaking lake views steal the show. It’s truly the heart of the home! The location is unforgettable – the surrounding nature seamlessly blends with the interiors, creating an immersive and memorable atmosphere.”
Riikka: “The views from the downstairs area are unmatched, but in summer, the terrace facing the lake gives the living room a run for its money. The stunning scenery and bold architecture make a strong impression from the get-go, and the interior design follows suit – without compromising functionality.”
Before we finish, we’d love to hear about the projects Studio is currently working on?
Maija: “Currently, we’re working on a variety of projects, from lighter interior consultations to more extensive home design plans. We specialize in residential design, and we’re thrilled to help with everything from small-scale decor issues to full-blown home renovations.
In addition, our services will soon be available internationally – we’re looking forward to receiving new, exciting design opportunities from around the world, alongside our local projects!”
See also:
• New arrivals at Finnish Design Shop >
• Book your stay at The House of Northern Lights >
Text: Mira Ahola Images: Krista Keltanen