Yrjö Kukkapuro, born on April 6, 1933, is a renowned Finnish interior architect and furniture designer celebrated for his innovative designs and ergonomic focus.

Kukkapuro embarked on his design journey at the Institute of Industrial Arts in Helsinki during the late 1950s, earning his qualification as an interior architect in 1958. He later returned to the Institute in the 1970s, serving as a Professor and, for a period of two years, taking on the role of Rector.

His academic contributions have been recognized internationally, earning him Honorary Professorships at esteemed institutions such as Jiangnan University in Wuxi and Nanjing University. Furthermore, he has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Art and Design Helsinki, which is now integrated into the Aalto University School of Arts, Design and Architecture.

Central to Kukkapuro's design philosophy is the principle of ergonomics, ensuring that his creations are not only aesthetically pleasing but also comfortable and functional.

Among his numerous designs, the Karuselli chair, introduced in 1964, stands out as a hallmark of his career. This iconic easy chair is celebrated for its unparalleled comfort and innovative design, earning it a spot in the permanent collections of prestigious institutions such as the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. In 1974, The New York Times lauded the Karuselli as the world's most comfortable chair, a sentiment echoed by renowned designer Sir Terence Conran, who praised it as his preferred seating option for its exceptional comfort.

Kukkapuro's influence extends beyond the Karuselli chair, with his work being showcased in numerous solo and group exhibitions worldwide. Remarkably, even in his late 80s, as of 2020, Kukkapuro continues to inspire and innovate in the field of design.

Yrjö Kukkapuro has shared his life with graphic artist Irmeli Kukkapuro, née Salminen, since 1954. Together, they have created a unique home studio in Kauniainen, a testament to their collaborative spirit and creative synergy. This personal and professional space was co-designed by Kukkapuro and his long-time collaborator, engineer Eero Paloheimo, reflecting their shared vision and dedication to design excellence.