Design Helsinki: World Design Capital 2012
1 - 10 June 2012
About the Tour
This inaugural design tour, led by architecture and design writer Stephen Crafti and art historian Kenneth W. Park, is a must for those wanting to explore the finest in design that Helsinki has to offer. Helsinki has been nominated the Design City Capital for 2012. Given this title, and its rich treasure trove of designer riches, this tour promises a wonderful opportunity to discover the city during this time. Home of the legendary Alvar Aalto, the tour will include visits to some of his most iconic buildings; his own home and studio, the Alvar Aalto Museum and various of his public buildings including the Aalto University School of Art and Design (Arabia Factory, Museum and Gallery). It will also be a rare opportunity to visit one of Aalto’s architectural creations, including afternoon tea with the owners. And of course we will be seeing the Savoy Restaurant. The extraordinary Temppeliaukio Church, designed in the late 1960s, is also in the schedule. Designed by brothers Timo and Tuomo Suomalanien, the ‘Rock Church’, as it’s commonly referred to, will resonate for years to come. And to see how younger architectural practices are building on this heritage, a visit to the studio of Hollmén Reuter Sandman Architects has been arranged.
Design Helsinki also includes Finland’s other design legends, with a visit to Iittala and the Marimekko Flagship store. Other legendary designer names, such as Artek, are included. Fashionistas will enjoy visiting the fashion house of Hanna Sarén, known for androgynous tailoring and the recent recipients of the Scandinavian Designer of the Year award. The visual sensation of Helsinki will be rivaled by visits to some of the cities most innovative restaurants and cafes. From sleek minimal warehouse style eateries to intimate and personal signatures, this tour will certainly meet the expectations of even the most fastidious design connoisseur.
Visits include Tomorrow’s Antique Store • Temppeliaukio 'Rock' Church • Salakauppa • Helsinki Central Railway Station • Residential suburb of Arabianranta • Arabia Museum and Gallery • Marimekko Outlet Shop • Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma • Finlandia Hall • National Museum of Finland • Parliament Annexe • Helsinki Cathedral • Boknäs Furniture Shop • Iittala Store • Marimekko Flagship Store • Artek Store • Decor of the Savoy Restaurant (1937) • Café Aalto & Academic Bookstore • Hollmén Reuter Sandman Architects • Sibelius Monument • Iitalia Glass Centre • Summer Evening Cruise on Lake Paijannet • Muurame Church • Muuratsalo Experimental House • Saynatsalo Town Hall • Worker’s Club • Alvar Aalto Museum • University of Jyväskylä • Church of the Cross, Lhati • Villa Kokkonen • Olympic Stadium (exterior only) • Museum of Finnish Architecture • Design Museum • Hanna Sarén Atelier • Design Forum Finland • Design District Helsinki • Aalto House & Studio
