Anu-Anette Varho – Finland

Anu-Anette Varho is a Project Specialist, Interior Architect, and Designer with extensive experience in cultural projects and regional development. Her work often focuses on designing services and spaces, supporting local creative talent, and fostering community collaboration. With a multidisciplinary background, she has also contributed to event planning, communications, and the development of new operational models.

Anu-Anette has worked in architectural firms specializing in public interior spaces, including the Helsinki Music Centre (Musiikkitalo), shopping centres, educational institutions, and restaurants. She has also served at the Arts Promotion Centre Finland as South Savo’s Regional Artist for Visual Surroundings and Architecture, where she was responsible for regional design coordination, event production, and promoting Finland’s Percent for Art initiative. In addition, she coordinated the Suomi Finland 100 centenary celebrations in her region—part of the country’s largest and most inclusive official anniversary programme.

In recent years, Anu-Anette has focused on promoting cultural and food tourism in the Saimaa region—first through the European Capital of Culture initiative, and currently as part of the European Region of Gastronomy project. She views cultural and culinary tourism as a holistic experience encompassing atmosphere, scents, flavours, authentic storytelling, and visitor-centred services. Since 2024, she has also contributed her expertise as an IGCAT Expert.