Exploring Helsinki: A Journey Through the Heart of Finnish Design and Architecture
Kathy and I recently traveled through Helsinki en route to the High Arctic, where we made a remarkable discovery: the Design Museum. This institution profoundly illuminated the substantial contributions of Finnish designers, such as Eero Saarinen. The Design Museum’s website offers further insights: https://www.
We learned that architecture and design are integral to the fabric of Helsinki. The city was honored as the World Design Capital in 2012 and as UNESCO's City of Design in 2014. In 2016, Helsinki further distinguished itself by becoming the first city to appoint a Design Director.
One of the most stunning architectural marvels in Helsinki is the Oodi Public Library. Its wooden facade softens the overall aesthetic, creating a welcoming ambiance. The design, conceived by ALA Architects of Helsinki, features an arching form that invites people to explore its various spaces and services. This inspiring building was celebrated as the world's best new public library in 2019.
We also delved into the legacy of Hugo Alvar Henrik Aalto (February 3, 1898 - May 11, 1976), revered as the "Father of Modernism" in Scandinavia. Aalto’s oeuvre spans architecture, furniture, textiles, and glassware. One of his most significant works is Finlandia Hall, designed in 1971. This iconic structure, with its white Carrara marble facade contrasting against black granite, stands as one of Helsinki's most beautiful buildings. Inspired by European cultural traditions and Venetian palaces by the water, Finlandia Hall harmonizes with its surrounding park, seamlessly blending into the local landscape. Its futuristic aesthetic remains captivating even decades later.
In addition to Aalto is Eero Saarinen. Born in Hvitträsk, Finland on August 20, 1910, Saarinen migrated to the United States in 1923 where he grew up in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. His father taught and served as dean of the Cranbrook Academy of Art and during this period, Eero formed close relationships with fellow students and renowned designers Charles and Ray Eames and architect Florence Knoll.
Saarinen first garnered acclaim for his design of a chair, created in collaboration with Charles Eames, which won first place in the Organic Design in Home Furnishings competition in 1940. Throughout his lengthy association with Knoll, Saarinen designed numerous iconic pieces of furniture, including the Grasshopper lounge chair and ottoman (1946), the Womb chair and ottoman (1948), the Womb settee (1950), and his most famous Tulip or Pedestal group (1956). This collection featured side and arm chairs, dining, coffee, and side tables, and a stool. While most of these designs were highly successful, the Grasshopper lounge chair, though produced until 1965, did not achieve the same level of commercial success.
Overall, our journey through Helsinki revealed a city where design and architecture are woven into its very essence. From the innovative Oodi Public Library to the timeless elegance of Finlandia Hall, Helsinki's commitment to aesthetic and functional design is evident. The legacies of visionaries like Aalto and Saarinen continue to inspire and shape the cityscape, highlighting Helsinki's role as a beacon of modernist design. This exploration not only deepened our appreciation for Finnish creativity but also underscored the profound impact that thoughtful design can have on our daily life.
For an in-depth exploration of the artistry and design inherent in Finnish furniture for your home, we invite you to contact our team at Home Resource for a personalized consultation.
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