Our Designer
Impact doesn't have to cost the Earth
Behind the scenes of Boardwalk is our designer Hanna Laikola. A British-Finnish design professional specialising in two complementary areas of creativity - furniture design and events.
Her work explores the creative potential of cardboard, turning a humble material into functional, engaging design objects and environments.
“As a child, I was never interested in the toy - only the box it came in. That curiosity continues to drive my approach today”
Hanna Laikola
The Creative Potential
of Cardboard
Hanna has launched and curated international events, developed immersive spaces and built platforms connecting design professionals with businesses and audiences in meaningful ways. During her early years working within the events industry, she was struck by the sheer volume of waste generated, an experience that profoundly shaped her perspective on design. It strengthened her belief that furniture and building materials should not only be functional and beautiful, but also contribute positively to the environment.
Inevitably, it was her determination to turn a single sheet of cardboard into a considered, sustainable, functional design process which led to the venture of BoardWalk.
Hanna graduated from Nottingham Trent University in the UK, where she later returned as an Associate Lecturer in Product Design before relocating to Finland. As an independent designer, she has worked with a wide range of clients, always with a passion for making design not only beautiful, but also accessible, impactful, and relevant.
" Boardwalk product innovation is key to sustainability. By embracing new ideas and the creative potential of cardboard with less waste and eco-friendly materials, the future looks greener ".
Hanna’s work has been featured in leading publications such as The Guardian, The Sunday Times, The Independent, The Financial Times, ICON, Design Week, Elle Decoration, Homes & Gardens, The Observer, Vogue, and Marie Claire, among others.
