Scandinavian design is famous all over the world for its beautiful simplicity. iittala is a Finnish company producing gorgeous glassware and ceramics. They have been around for almost a century.
Their lovely shop in Esplanadi is always one of the first places I visit in Helsinki.
The pretty Christmas window.
The most famous products made by iittala are the glassware designs of Alvar Aalto, especially the Aalto vase, also known as the Savoy vase. It was first produced in 1936 and is more popular now than ever.
The shape is beautiful and is repeated in several products.
Timo Sarpaneva joined the company in 1950, designing glassware and in 1956 he designed the “i” logo. It is amazing how modern this looks more than 50 years later.
iittala sells exquisite glass birds by Oiva Toikka.
iittala also owns Arabia ceramics. I bought these pieces in the 1960s and I still love them.
I have a much loved Alvar Aalto vase. I also love the beautiful glass birds by Oiva Toikka – you are right, they are exquisite – one day I must buy an example.
That is my Alvar vase in the photo. I love the shape. It looks great with or without flowers.
Great blog!
Thank you. I love Helsinki.
Fine design and Christmas window.
[…] iittala has the most exquisite glassware and kitchen items. Something usually finds its way into my suitcase. […]