Finlandia Homes, Helsinki, Finland
An Extraordinary Stay Inside Alvar Aalto’s Modernist Masterpiece
Why DNA Hotels Loves It
● Two beautifully restored residences inside Alvar Aalto’s iconic Finlandia Hall offer one of the world’s most immersive architectural stays.
● Original mid-century details are thoughtfully paired with contemporary Scandinavian design, creating interiors that honour Aalto’s legacy while feeling entirely contemporary.
● A rare opportunity to experience one of Finland’s greatest architectural landmarks not as a visitor, but as a temporary resident.
Living Inside an Icon
Few buildings define Finnish modernism as profoundly as Finlandia Hall. Completed in 1971 on the edge of Töölönlahti Bay, Alvar Aalto’s masterpiece is celebrated for its sculptural white Carrara marble façade, elegant geometry, and remarkable relationship with natural light. With the introduction of Finlandia Homes, guests can now experience the building in a completely new way. Not by walking through it. But by living inside it.
A Thoughtful Restoration
The two residences, named Aino and Elissa, honour Aalto’s two architect wives and creative collaborators. Every aspect of the restoration has been approached with exceptional care. Original architectural details remain intact while contemporary Scandinavian furniture from brands including HAY and &Tradition complements the historic interiors with quiet confidence. The project has been recognised with a Wallpaper* Design Award, celebrating both its architectural sensitivity and commitment to sustainable restoration. Old and new exist effortlessly together. Neither competing for attention.
Homes with Individual Character
Although united by Aalto’s architectural language, each apartment tells its own story. Aino embraces soft colours, tactile materials, and a warm domestic atmosphere inspired by Aino Marsio-Aalto’s refined approach to interiors. Elissa adopts a more architectural expression, reflecting Elissa Aalto’s confident and forward-looking design philosophy. Large windows frame Hesperia Park, allowing the surrounding landscape to become an integral part of each interior. Nature remains the final designer. Just as Aalto intended.
Architecture, Art and Everyday Life
Throughout both residences, carefully selected artworks from the Helsinki Art Museum deepen the connection between architecture and culture. Rather than recreating a museum, Finlandia Homes creates spaces that invite guests to interact naturally with exceptional design. Every chair, light fitting, material, and artwork contributes to an environment that feels remarkably lived-in despite its architectural significance. Nothing feels untouchable. Everything invites appreciation.
A Design Pilgrimage
For architecture enthusiasts, Finlandia Homes offers something exceptionally rare. It is one thing to visit an iconic building. It is something entirely different to wake within it, experience how daylight moves across its surfaces, and understand its proportions through everyday living. The result is an intimate encounter with one of the twentieth century’s most influential architects. The building becomes personal. Not simply monumental.
Why It Works
Finlandia Homes succeeds because it transforms architectural heritage into a genuine hospitality experience. Rather than preserving Alvar Aalto’s masterpiece behind barriers, it allows guests to inhabit it with respect, comfort, and curiosity. It is one of the rare places where design history, contemporary living, and timeless Scandinavian craftsmanship come together under one remarkable roof.
