Hoos has quietly become one of the city’s most inspiring destinations for design lovers — a haven where Nordic simplicity meets Scottish craftsmanship. At its heart is Karen Harvey, whose discerning eye and appreciation for form, function, and authenticity have shaped Hoos into more than a homeware store. It’s a reflection of a lifestyle rooted in warmth, balance, and timeless style.
We sat down with Karen to talk about the origins of Hoos, her passion for Nordic design, and how she sees Glasgow’s homes embracing contemporary living.
Karen, how did your journey begin in establishing Hoos as the go-to place for unique, stylish homeware in Glasgow?
I was thrilled to secure the lease on Hoos, and I spent six months researching and reaching out to my Danish Brands to ask if they would consider me as a stockist. They are very particular about who they work with, which is totally understandable given the quality of their design and materials. I also wanted to have handmade items and contacted ceramic artists and jewellers to make stock for me, and I wanted them to be based in Scotland, as we have so many talented makers here.
So, for me, Hoos has some of the best Danish Brands such as Hay, Muuto, Normann Copenhagen and Ferm Living. We also now have Flos, String and Moebe, and one of the highlights of my year is going to Copenhagen for 3 Days of Design.
How do you curate your selection of Nordic brands for Hoos?
I curate what’s on display in Hoos by choosing what I would have in my own home. They all have extensive collections, and Hoos is not a big space, so I have to really think about what would work in Glasgow.
“Danish design is all about form and function, nothing is not considered”
“Danish design is all about form and function, nothing is not considered”
What does contemporary living mean in Glasgow today?
Contemporary Living, for me, is about having a space that you love to come home to that reflects your lifestyle. For me, that’s creating a room that has contemporary furniture that I love, along with some older pieces that might have belonged to my folks. I also love lighting, as this sets the atmosphere for your living space.
Do you have any advice for someone trying to bring this style into their home?
In my book, you have to have lots of plants to bring life into your room and not just in the living space, as bedrooms look great with big plants too! If you feel your home needs a bit of a refresh, it’s good to pare it back and see what a room looks like with less furniture and try moving the sofa if that’s possible, as this can completely change a room. Magazines are good for styling ideas, and curating some of your favourite vases, books, or candlesticks can create interesting areas in your room. A new rug can also really work to lift a space.
Why is simple and functional design so important to you?
Danish design is all about form and function, nothing is not considered, and the quality and integrity of pieces make them pieces that can become heirlooms passed down in families.
“A home is so personal, and I feel that people want to buy more sustainably and now consider vintage pieces to sit alongside a contemporary sofa.”
“A home is so personal, and I feel that people want to buy more sustainably and now consider vintage pieces to sit alongside a contemporary sofa.”
Have you always been drawn to Nordic design? What first inspired you?
I have always been drawn to Nordic design, and my parents bought all their furniture from the Danish Design Centre at St George’s Cross when I was in my teens. I still have a few of their pieces in my own home.
How do you see current interior trends shaping your store?
A home is so personal, and I feel that people want to buy more sustainably and now consider vintage pieces to sit alongside a contemporary sofa. A trend is just that, and even if it’s just to buy a candle in a trending colour or a new throw, you can bring in small changes that will bring you joy without spending a lot.
Where is your ‘hidden gem’ spot in Glasgow?
The West End and its green spaces and fantastic architecture inspire me every day. A hidden gem for me is the GFT and its listed interior, and of course, our University and Art Galleries. The lighting at night on both buildings is fabulous.