Aalto Works

Alvar Aalto, Finland's most celebrated architect and designer, is recognized widely across the world. His work can be found in several cities through Finland as well as in many Finnish households; he truly is an institution. Helsinki is where he built his home, had his studio and shaped the city outline. Therefore Helsinki is an excellent place to discover Finnish design and architecture through Alvar Aalto's impressive, characteristic and iconic works.

In a 26 July 2026 meeting, the UNESCO World Heritage Committee approved the ‘Aalto Works’ nomination, consisting of 13 sites designed by the Finnish architect and designer Alvar Aalto, for inclusion on the World Heritage List. Aalto Works brings together 13 sites that highlight the significance of the architecture of Alvar Aalto (1898–1976) and his architect and designer wives, Aino Aalto (1894–1949) and Elissa Aalto (1922–1994), in the development of Finland's Nordic welfare state.

Five of the thirteen sites in the Aalto Works series that have now been inscribed on the World Heritage List are located in Helsinki: The Aalto House and Studio Aalto, Finlandia Hall, the House of Culture, and the Main Office of the National Pensions Institute (Kela). 
Both Finlandia Hall and the House of Culture are open to the public, while the Aalto Home and Studio Aalto can be visited on guided tours. The National Pensions Institute Main Office is unfortunately not open to visitors. Read more about the sites below.

Read more about life and work of Alvar Aalto and his architect wives Aino and Elissa in Helsinki on MyHelsinki and Alvar Aalto Foundation's website.
You can learn more about the work of Alvar, Elissa and Aino Aalto also at the Finlandia Hall’s permanent exhibition ‘Visions of Alvar Aalto’. In addition, Aalto’s architecture is on display at the ‘Aalto Design – Shapes of Wellbeing’ exhibition at Helsinki’s Museum of Architecture and Design until 3 January 2027.

Helsinki Tourist Information’s pop-up info point specialising in architecture is be open at the Finlandia Hall from 30 July to 29 August, Tuesdays to Saturdays from 11.00 to 16.00. The stand provides information on Aalto’s architectural landmarks and tips on how to experience Helsinki’s architecture and design.