Alvar Aalto

Arguably the best and the most famous Finnish designer & architect, Alvar Aalto was born on 3rd February, 1898 in Kuortane, Finland. The man who put the spotlight on modern furniture and architecture, he became known for his exemplary furniture designs even before he became popular for his contribution to the world of architecture.

Aalto obtained a Diploma in Architecture from the Helsinki Institute of Technology in 1921. His career took off when he received the commission to design the Tuberculosis Sanatorium in Paimio, Finland. This was one of the most prominent projects completed by him, as each and every object in the building was designed by him. Right from the lighting and furniture to the architecture, this building was a one man show! 

Aalto cofounded the outstanding furniture brand, Artek in 1935, with three like minded indivduals; Aino Aalto (his wife), Nils-Gustav Hahl and Maire Gullichsen. Artek was set up by the husband-wife duo to sell their chic Scandinavian style stools, tables, chairs, sofas, lamps, textiles and accessories. The objects created by Aalto are still fresh, owing to their simple, organic shapes and functional designs.

Some other noticeable projects designed and executed by Alvar Aalto include the Finnish Pavilions for the 1937 Paris and 1939 New York World Fairs, the Viipuri Municipal Library, La Maison Carré and Villa Mairea.

Aalto made a lasting mark on modern furniture and architecture through his pioneering Nordic designs and his legacy lives on through his brand Artek, that pays tribute to his brilliant work everyday!