I have been inspired by the work of Finnish architect and designer Alvar Aalto since early in my architectural education. His work continues to be a strong influence in the design world; everywhere from architecture to consumer products (Ikea owes a heck of a lot to Aalto).

Muchos Aalto linkage for your browsing pleasure, and more Aalto talk follows.

Link: Alvar Aalto Foundation
Link: Artek
Visit: Alvar Aalto Museum
Link: Aino Aalto (book available through Aalto Museum)
Link: Iittala (Aino Aalto glassware)
Link: Alvar Aalto Houses (CD-ROM by Opulens)
Link: Baker House (MIT student project website)
Web Exhibition: Aalto Chairs
Web Exhibition: Paimio Sanatorium

The "A" list:

Alvar
Alvar Aalto expanded upon modernism to create a more "human" modern movement which continues to this day. Natural, familiar, organic materials and forms are central to his work and sets him apart in my mind from other designers.

Artek
Artek was founded in 1935 by Alvar Aalto and his associates following the success of his first modern furniture designs for Paimio Sanatorium to produce and promote Aalto's furniture, lighting, textiles, etc. Today they contiune to produce many of Aalto's designs, as well as products by other designers.

Aino
Alvar's wife Aino Marsio-Aalto is known for her glassware design, but was also as a furniture and interior designer, an architect and a photographer. A new book published jointly by the Alvar Aalto Foundation and Aalto Museum is a comprehensive look at her work.

Anthony
My partner in crime here at Land+Living. So, what on earth does Anthony have to do with Aalto? Absolutely nothing other than his name starts with "A" and I'm doing a lame tie-in with his post.

Paimio Sanatorium, 1928-1933

Alvar Aalto chairs and stools produced by Artek

Alvar Aalto light fixture and screen produced by Artek

A new book about Aino Aalto's glassware and other works