22cl - 2 x Aino Aalto sea blue tumbler - 1027321 - Iittala

The Aino Aalto collection, published by Iittala, is an iconic series of glassware that embodies the essence of Nordic design and functionalism. Created in 1932 by Aino Aalto, a pioneering Finnish architect and designer, the collection was born of a competition organized by the Karhula glassworks (later part of Iittala). Originally called “Bölgeblick” (a Swedish term meaning “look at the waves”), it won second prize in the competition. That same year, it went into production, and has been manufactured ever since, testifying to its status as a timeless classic.

Inspiration & design

Aino Aalto was inspired by the concentric circles that form on the surface of water when a stone is thrown into it. This organic simplicity is reflected in the clean, undulating lines of the glassware. The collection, which today bears his name, is distinguished by its functional, stackable form, designed to save space while offering great versatility. Glasses, pitchers, bowls and plates: each piece combines practicality and minimalist aesthetics, values dear to modernism, a movement of which Aino Aalto was an important figure.

Features

Material pressed glass, robust and suitable for everyday use.

Style timeless design, with a simplicity that remains contemporary even after more than 90 years.

Variety available in two sizes and various colors 

Use dishwasher-safe for most parts, although some items, such as the pitcher, may require hand-washing.

Heritage

The Aino Aalto collection has left its mark on Finnish design history. In 1936, it was awarded a gold medal at the Milan Triennale, confirming its international impact. It embodies Aino Aalto's approach to honest use of materials and accessible production, in line with the ideals of modernism.

Designer

Aino Aalto (born Aino Mandelin-Marsio, 1894-1949) was a pioneer of Finnish design. Born in Helsinki, Finland, she received her architecture degree in 1920 from Helsinki Polytechnic. In 1924, Aino joined famed Finnish architect Alvar Aalto’s firm. That step proved fateful for Aino both professionally and personally when she soon married Alvar, creating a lifelong partnership that built an international design legacy. The couple worked closely until Aino’s death, collaborating on several projects that have left a significant mark on global design.