Alvar Aalto, 1935

The Aalto Table conveys a relaxed familiarity that resists categorisation. With legs and edge-bands of Finnish birch, it radiates natural beauty and warmth, moving easily between public and private spheres in accordance with Alvar Aalto’s conception of versatile furniture. The top is available in birch, linoleum, or laminate, materials that age gracefully over time and last across generations. All-natural linoleum offers the ideal surface for writing, while easy-to-clean laminate provides a slightly more robust option. Whether used for dining, working, or playing, the table retains its character while offering endless possibilities.

Recognised today as one of the great masters of modern architecture, Alvar Aalto (1898-1976) was born in Kuortane, Finland. During a long and prolific career, Aalto designed buildings for almost all key public institutions, as well as standardised housing and private homes. One of the co-founders of Artek, Aalto left a legacy with lasting resonance.

Aalto’s architecture is distinctively Finnish, strongly individual, and marked by a warm humanity. His buildings derive their aesthetic character from their dynamic relationship with their natural surroundings, their human scale, superbly executed details, unique treatment of materials, and ingenious use of lighting.

Aalto began designing furnishings as a natural extension of his architectural thinking. His first modern piece of furniture was created in 1931-32 for the tuberculosis sanatorium in Paimio, Finland. Artek was set up in 1935 to market and sell his and his wife Aino’s furniture, lighting, and textiles, particularly on international markets.