Alvar Aalto's Finlandia Hall was completed beside Töölö Bay in Helsinki in 1971, with a congress wing following in 1975. It was intended as part of a much larger city-center plan. Although that scheme was only partly realized, the concert and congress building retained its prominent relationship with the water and the surrounding park.
White Carrara marble and dark granite give the exterior strong contrasts. Inside, lower entrance spaces lead by stairs to brighter, more generous foyers. The main foyer was conceived as an indoor piazza, with large windows opening toward the bay. These changes of height, light and outlook make arrival and intermission important parts of the architectural experience.
Aalto's office also designed the furnishings and fittings. Elissa Aalto and interior designer Pirkko Söderman had principal roles in the interiors, where specially designed lights, furniture and fabrics continue the architecture at a smaller scale. The result connects the building's public silhouette with the things people touch and use, while keeping attention on audiences, performers and the events within.
Armchair by Aalto
