Architecture In Helsinki
by American Way Staff
EDUSKUNTATALO, PARLIAMENT
HOUSE
Architect: Johan Sigfrid Sirén
Genre: 1920s classicism
Year completed: 1931
Why we love it: The imposing building boasts 14
Corinthian columns and is composed of all-Finnish materials.
Philosophically, it represents the fusion of art, architecture,
craftsmanship, and industrial design.
KULTTUURITALO, HOUSE OF
CULTURE
Architect: Alvar Aalto
Genre: Modern
Year completed: 1958
Why we love it: Functional but interpretive, this
curving building alludes to the shapes of sound and music. Its
asymmetrical, free-flowing hall influenced the invention of the
wedge-shaped brick.
KANSALLISKIRJASTO, NATIONAL LIBRARY
OF FINLAND
Architects: Carl Ludvig Engel and Gustaf
Nyström
Genre: Neoclassical
Year completed: 1845
Why we love it: This grand structure's lavish plan
mimics the Baths of Diocletian in Rome. The classical, temple-like
facade is complemented by interior vaulted halls and rooms.
KIASMA, MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY
ART
Architect: Steven Holl
Genre: Contemporary
Year completed: 1998
Why we love it: A symphony of contradictions (soft
curves meet angles, and heavy materials meld with light ones), it's
an asymmetrical masterpiece that's the perfect home for modern
art.
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