IAR202 - Welcome Mat (Finland)

My welcome mat for my Finnish visitor incorporates Scandinavian design--simple, clean lines, and trueness of materials (solid birch and cotton rope) that I believe they would easily recognize. Wood dowels were placed vertically in the raised frame and the rope was tightly woven horizontally for added support. When standing on this mat, you'll be surprised by its cushioned spring-like effect. I think my Finnish visitor would feel very welcome, and it would make a great entry mat for a Finnish sauna!




The following are images used for inspiration for my welcome mat for my Finnish guest. Saunas are very popular in Finland (about the same number of saunas as cars!), so I've incorporated the suggestions of each of these images in my design. My welcome mat will be suitable for any indoor entry, however, given the materials and concept, it would be most suitable for a sauna entry.

Sauna interior

Sauna "pillow"

Birch "vihta" - an aromatic bunch of birch branches used for stimulating circulation to the skin

Finnish flag