Riihitie plant pot Large A – blue – Artek

Named after Riihitie Street in Helsinki, where Aino and Alvar Aalto built their house-studio in 1934-1936, these pots were originally created for the terrace of this residence, now a museum. Presented at the 1937 Paris World's Fair, they were never mass-produced at the time, but Artek reintroduced them in 2017 to celebrate the centenary of Finland's independence.

Key Features

The Riihitie pots are distinguished by their organic shape, without right angles, evoking flowing lines inspired by nature. This undulating silhouette reflects the Aaltos' close connection with the environment, a constant in their work. They are available in two distinct shapes: Form A: More elongated and asymmetrical, with a sculptural look; and Form B: More compact and rounded, with gentle curves. Handcrafted from ceramic with a glazed finish, a material dear to the Aaltos, often used in their architectural projects (e.g., the tiles of the Muuratsalo experimental house). Ceramic provides a refined texture and durability suitable for indoor use. Designed for indoor use only, without a drainage hole, they are suitable for potted plants, small flowers, or even as decorative objects for storing items.

Highlights

Their organic and minimalist design adapts to a variety of interior styles, from modern spaces to more classic decors. These pots embody the Aalto family's philosophy, which focused as much on small details as on grand architectural projects. They reflect the humanist and naturalist approach of Aino Aalto, a pioneer of Finnish design. Each pot is handmade, ensuring exceptional quality and uniqueness. They can hold plants, but also serve as trinket trays or decorative objects, adding an artistic touch to a shelf, windowsill, or table. The glazed ceramic is durable and easy to maintain (clean with a damp cloth).

Historical and Cultural Context

Aino Aalto designed these pots for the terrace of the family home in Riihitie, a space that embodied their vision of warm functionalism, blending wood, brick, and simplicity. Although presented in Paris in 1937, their mass production was put on hold, likely due to economic constraints and Artek's priorities at the time. In 2017, for Finland's centenary, Artek relaunched the pots, respecting the original forms while adapting them for indoor use. The chosen colors pay homage to the Aaltos' ceramic experiments, particularly in Muuratsalo. Often overshadowed by her husband Alvar, Aino is a major figure in design. Co-founding Artek in 1935, she made history with her Bölgeblick glass (1932), textiles, and furniture. Riihitie pots demonstrate his talent for creating objects that are both practical and poetic.

Practical Applications

Perfect for showcasing indoor plants (e.g., succulents, ferns, pothos) on a windowsill, console table, or coffee table. Their sculptural design makes them a statement piece even without plants. Their status as an art object and their history make them an ideal gift for lovers of Nordic design. Use them in offices, hotels, or galleries to add a touch of refinement.

Conclusion

Artek's Riihitie pots, designed by Aino Aalto, are much more than simple planters: they are functional art objects that embody the timeless elegance of Finnish design. Their organic form, handcrafted construction, and connection to the Aalto family's heritage make them unique pieces, ideal for design lovers looking to add a touch of nature and history to their homes.