Helsinki based interior architect Joanna Laajisto´s latest project is Minna Parikka´s flagship store in down town Helsinki. The shop is located on Helsinki´s main shopping street Aleksanterinkatu, with large storefront windows opening out to the busy walkway.

The interior of the store is simultaneously sophisticated and playful. Joanna´s design concept is inspired by Parikka´s feminine shoe and accessory collections. Classic natural materials, such as leather, wood and marble, work well with the pastel colored background. The walls and glossy epoxy floors are a shade of faint powdery peach while the display shelves have mint and light coral hues. The color palette is muted so the merchandise gets the main attention. The use of mirror in large quantities gives the space some extra edge.

Although the interior is elegant, the store doesn’t take it self too seriously. Fun details, such as the “kissing booth” with tan leather lip sofa and neon xxx sign can be found in the floor to ceiling mirrored corner of the store. Joanna designed a delicate white marble writing desk with neon pink thumb stone style lettering to serve the purpose of a cashiers counter. The company slogan “May these shoes lead you to new directions” sums up the thought behind the brand. Minna Parikka’s shoes and accessories radiate playfulness that takes women on their own individual adventures.

The Helsinki-based label has stockists in over 20 countries. Since 2006, Minna Parikka’s shoes and accessories have graced the feet and bodies of women all over the world, including Fergie, Paloma Faith, Beth Ditto from the Gossip and Dita von Teese. Lady Gaga is true fan: Minna has designed a double platinum award for her and in Autumn 2012 Terry Richardson featured Gaga wearing Minna’s limited edition cartoon shoes in his blog.

Although the brand´s main focus is footwear, buttery soft leather gloves, bags, wallets and surreal silk scarves complement the range. The flagship store celebrated it´s grand opening in end of November 2012, just in time for the Christmas sales.