Samuli Naamanka
Espoo, Finland

Interior architect Samuli Naamanka (born1969) is known as a versatile designer whose work com- bines carefully considered vocabulary of form with creative technical innovation. As well as product design and interior design, Naamanka specialises in environmental design. Amongst other things, he has carried out groundbreaking work in the development of concrete products.

The results of this have given rise, for example, to patent inventions for a graphic concrete patterning technology and for colouring concrete in several different colours. One of his most recent devel- opment is the seat of the COMPOS chair produced from 100% biodegradable natural composite fibre.

Samuli Naamanka’s work include the prize-winning Clash chair, exhibition designs, environ- mental works and public works of art. The works contain references to the history, nature and architecture of the places where they are located and symbols of them.

Samuli Naamanka was awarded the 2004 elevationbuilding prize by the Julkisivuyhdistys (the Finnish facade foundation) for developing graphic concrete, and the SIO Furniture Designer of the Year prize in 2005. His most recent awards are ( Uni Chair ) the 2008 Nordiska design prize and EcoDesign 1.Prize at Habitare 2010, the Bio- degradable Roll on lamp shade - judge by Ingo Maurer. He has also given The Arts Council of Finland 5-year artist grant.