Alvar Aalto’s distinctive design approach is an intuitive and visionary employment of traditional Finnish aesthetics and craftsmanship. His legacy runs deep – from his humble beginnings to his world-renown as a master of modern architecture and furniture design. The Designer Aalto built his architectural expertise at Helsinki Institute of Technology and began his career at his first architectural practice in Jyväskylä. Following the eras and their distinct styles, Aalto’s work reflected Nordic Classicism, then moved into both Modernism and the International Style, and later integrating Functionalism. After he and his wife (also an architect) made a name for themselves with their design of the Paimio Sanatorium (1929-1933), Aalto’s signature ability to integrate functionality with organic forms continued to grow and develop, flowing into his proficiency and passion for making every building a work of art—from the roof to the décor. Over the following decades, Aalto’s work can be seen in dozens of public buildings, as well as the extensive collection of furnishings and décor. Photo courtesy of www.alvaraalto.fi. Alvar Aalto Stool 60 The first of many, the Alvar Aalto Stool 60 is quintessential and features Alvar hallmarks like the cascading bend of the legs. This simple stool is the epitome of functional with the added benefit of being effortlessly beautiful. Smooth lines and modest form have made the Stool 60 a classic and home essential for almost 90 years. Icon of Modernism One of four founders of the Artek brand, Alvar Aalto’s pieces embrace the brand’s dedication to blending art and technology for the sake of promoting “a modern culture of living.” His furniture, like his buildings, strike a balance, exist in harmony with their surroundings, and possess thoughtful, though sparse, details. A leader of the modernist movement, Alvar teamed up with his wife Aino to inject a uniquely architectural perspective into lighting, textiles, and furniture, creating his first piece in 1932. Alvar’s legacy lies in the pieces he designed that continue to be reproduced for the benefit and admiration of current and future generations. Tea Trolley 900 Alvar Aalto’s Tea Trolley 900 captures the quintessential charm and simplicity of Nordic design. Using Aalto’s signature technique of bending layers of wood into fluid shapes, the Tea Trolley trundles along on a birch frame and playfully large wheels. Featuring a wicker basket and a laminate tray, the Tea Trolley 900 adds distinctive character to modern hospitality.
