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Equality through
Empathy

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Less than a century ago, Finland was a young and, in many respects, economically challenged independent nation. Designer Kaj Franck, with an empathetic understanding of young families and their tight budgets, crafted a milk pitcher cleverly designed to snugly fit between two window frames. This placement allowed the milk to stay cool, eliminating the need for a full-fledged fridge.

Thus: not more products, but more functions with less.

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Kaj Franck kermakaadin, 1949-1952, picture Jean Barbier / Designmuseo, Helsinki

“I don’t really sell clothes.
I sell a way of living.”

Armi Ratia, founder of Marimekko

Social sustainability entails a commitment to equality. In the 1960’s, the winds of radicalness and liberty were blowing. The fashion and textile house Marimekko introduced lines of unisex clothing that advocated for a society where being true to one’s personality was more important than conforming to gender roles.

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Marimekko: Museokuva / Designmuseo, Helsinki

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Equality cannot be achieved without investing in equal opportunities. When Finland was preparing to celebrate its centennial as an independent nation in 2017, it decided to build a monument for learning and opportunity.

Helsinki Central Library Oodi, designed by ALA Architects, is located opposite the Parliament building. The library's balcony, a public space, intentionally aligns with the steps of the Parliament building, serving as a poignant reminder to the members of Parliament who wield actual power.

1. Picture: Oodi: Tuomas Uusheimo

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Design as a societal agent means designing for everyone.

Simplicity, therefore, is not just a style but an outcome of a commitment to serve people from all backgrounds.

This commitment is reflected in public services that now employ service design methods for enhancement. The user interface of the tax authorities' website, vero.fi, stands as contemporary evidence of the impactful role of design in fostering social sustainability. Beyond its user-friendly interface, vero.fi exemplifies the use of efficient 'green code' in the digital sphere, minimizing space and bandwidth usage.

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Vero.fi

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