Artek – innovative Finnish design
Artek, an iconic brand within modern design, was founded in 1935 in Helsinki by the visionaries Alvar and Aino Aalto, Maire Gullichsen and Nils-Gustav Hahl. The name "Artek" is an amalgamation of the words "art" and "technology" – two central concepts in international modernism which had its breakthrough in the 1920s. Modernism sought to unite these two worlds in a meaningful way, an idea which was also the basis for the name Artek.
Artek's history and founders
Artek was founded in Helsinki in 1935 by the young visionaries Alvar and Aino Aalto, Maire Gullichsen and Nils-Gustav Hahl. Their joint goal was to both sell furniture and promote a modern lifestyle through exhibitions and other educational activities.
Today Artek is a leading player within modern design. The company creates furniture, lighting, and accessories with the aim of striking a balance between aethestics, functionality, and simplicity. Conceived from the point at which design, architecture, and art converge, the collections are developed in close collaboration with both Finnish and international designers, making Artek one of the most innovative and sought-after brands in modern interiors.