finland

Finland is pivotal to the foundation of the Modern movement and is a must-see pilgrimage destination for 20th Century and contemporary architecture. With a history of competitions based on design excellence instead of big name firms, international starchitects haven’t been able to gain a foothold amongst the local talent.

This tour experiences and examines works from Alvar Aalto, Steven Holl, Eliel Saarinen and Juhani Pallasmaa, to local legends such as Reima+Raili Pietilä, Arno Ruusuvuori, Juha Leiviskä, Heikki+Kaija Siren, Erik Bryggman, Pekka Pitkänen and Kristian Gullichsen, and to the new generation of practices such as JKMM, ALA, K2S and Lassila Hirvilammi (OOPEAA).

This 10 day 'grand tour' will give a comprehensive overview of architecture and culture in the South and Central part of Finland. We start in the capital, Helsinki, exploring the various enclaves before going on a road trip visiting Tampere, Jyväskylä, Mänttä, Seinäjoki, Rauma and Turku and return to Helsinki for the end of the tour.*

There will be a lot of walking and public transport use. A certain basic level of fitness is required and it is best suited for architects, architecture graduates, architecture students, enthusiasts and independent travellers.

*please note destinations are subject to change