The story of Lahden Lepokalusto began in 1953, in the city of Lahti, Finland, thanks to the initiative of three passionate technicians: Aake Anttila, Pentti Roitto, and Paavo Virusmäki.

Driven by a shared desire to innovate in furniture making, they founded their company specializing in the production of upholstered furniture using the Epeda method, renowned worldwide for its quality and comfort.

The beginnings were modest but ambitious. The company set up its first workshop in a space rented from the Salvation Army at 28 Hämeenkatu Street. With only five employees, they produced sofa beds and beds with elm veneer headboards. By the end of the first year, the product range had expanded to include armchairs.

In this small structure, Aake Anttila was responsible for designing the models and overseeing production, while Pentti Roitto, his brother-in-law, handled sales. Their founding philosophy was clear: “If someone made good sofas, they would sell easily.” To this comment from Roitto, Anttila replied with determination: “Then I’ll make them if you sell them.”

Aake Anttila was not only a talented entrepreneur; he was also a passionate photographer and an accomplished music lover. He personally took the first photographs of the collections, contributing to the company's brand image. Beyond his industrial role, he chaired the Lahti Opera Association and actively participated in local concerts. Music held an essential place in the company culture and enlivened the parties and events organized by Lahden Lepokalusto.

Success came quickly: a national advertising campaign in the press propelled the company's reputation, particularly thanks to the innovation of vertical spring mattresses, which were more luxurious than the traditional horizontal-spring beds (Heteka). Within less than a year, the team had already grown to fifteen employees and continued expanding in the years that followed.

Thanks to a combination of innovation, a commitment to quality, and a strong entrepreneurial spirit, Lahden Lepokalusto gradually established itself as a key player in upholstered furniture in Finland, embodying elegance, comfort, and artisanal excellence.

Discover the chair by Aake Antilla sold by Norki !