We were asked to work on a sensitive restoration of the landmark Helsinki restaurant, designed in 1937 by Alvar and Aino Aalto. Our approach took its cue from the original interior, peeling back the layers and introducing only subtle aspects to reinforce the original spirit. The Aaltos believed that one of the main missions of modern architecture was to “refine materials in a more humane direction”. And so do we. So-called ‘soft’ values are vital in a hard world.
Photography by Anton Sucksdorff
Aalto's original iconic central serving table restored and upholstery refreshed
Our initial material board.Reframing the Aalto's sensitivity towards natural materials
The Aalto's were especially focused on the essence of comfort.
"It is from those little things that we should build a harmonious world for people."
