Kivalo Design products are created by hands that combine decades of experience, design inspired by northern nature, and uncompromising craftsmanship. Our team consists of passionate professionals who care deeply about quality, practicality, and aesthetics. On this page, you can learn more about the people behind Kivalo products.
I'm Heikki, a carpenter and designer from Rovaniemi, Finland. I bring strong craftsmanship and product design expertise to our company, with nearly two decades of experience in woodworking. My strengths are in an extensive knowledge of materials, work methods and crafting skills.
I graduated as a carpenter in 2006 and then worked for Marttiini knives for 12 years. In knife making, the hands-on craftsmanship and traditional production methods fascinated me. I specialized in crafting knife handles, especially from reindeer and moose antlers. In the last few years, I was responsible for producing custom knives for customers and unique knives with my own designs.
I draw inspiration from Finnish nature, its animals, natural phenomena, shapes and colours. This influence is strongly reflected in Kivalo products. I emphasize that the products are not only beautiful and well-made but also functional in their intended use.
Heikki Alakulppi
CEO, carpenter and designer
An experienced outdoorsman from Finnish Lapland with over 20 years of marketing and digital commerce experience, specializing in outdoor products. I bring strong knowledge and insights from these areas to the Kivalo Design’s team.
My experience in production, logistics, inventory management, project management and personnel management provides a solid foundation for understanding overall operations.
My values are based on high-quality and durable products, craftsmanship and unique design – all of which Kivalo excels at, scoring 5/5 on all these values!
In my free time, I am passionate about cooking and hiking – always with Kivalo products, of course!
Ari Paksuniemi
E-Commerce and sales
An Industrial Designer MA who explores with Kivalo, especially in the brand design. Some of the professional keywords include usability and visual aesthetics!
Outside of Kivalo’s design adventures, you'll find me immersed in technology and the arts, among other interests.
Ville Kivilompolo
Brand and marketing
