Fall in love with the shapes of Helsinki
Modernism, Art Nouveau, and bold new ways to live beautifully—Helsinki’s design and architecture tell a story of nature, function and imagination.
Helsinki is a city built on design. From the soaring National Romantic facades of Katajanokka to Alvar Aalto’s humanist modernism, and from contemporary saunas to handcrafted textiles, the city is shaped by beauty, practicality and a deep respect for materials. The result? A capital where design doesn’t just decorate life—it defines how it’s lived.
Whether you’re wandering the cobbled streets of the Design District or exploring Aalto’s iconic buildings, you’ll find yourself surrounded by structure, intention, and story. Architecture lovers and design fans will feel right at home.
Helsinki architecture: a journey through style and history
Art Nouveau (Jugend)
Helsinki is home to the largest concentration of Art Nouveau buildings in Northern Europe. Districts like Katajanokka and Ullanlinna are full of curved lines, floral details, and mythical creatures drawn from Finland’s national epic, Kalevala. Look up—you might spot owls, bears, or sea serpents carved into the stone.
Helsinki Art Nouveau architecture highlights Nordic Classicism and early modernism
In Töölö and around the city centre, buildings from the 1920s and 1930s reflect a shift toward harmony, balance, and light. Think smooth columns, clean facades, and elegant restraint—seen in places like the National Museum and the Finnish Parliament House.
7 Design hotels in Helsinki Alvar Aalto’s human-centred modernism
Aalto’s architecture blends functionalism with softness and natural materials. His signature can be seen in buildings like Finlandia Hall, the Academic Bookstore, and the House of Culture—spaces that feel open, considered, and deeply Finnish.
Alvar Aalto’s Helsinki Contemporary statements
Today’s Helsinki continues the design story with bold public architecture. Oodi Central Library, Amos Rex Museum, Löyly sauna, and the wooden Kamppi Chapel of Silence show how form, function and feeling still go hand in hand in Finland’s capital.
7 stunning libraries to explore in Helsinki Celebrating 20 years of Design
Helsinki is a city shaped by design from everyday objects to iconic buildings, design influences how the city feels, flows, and functions. At its creative core is the Helsinki Design District, a cluster of shops, galleries, museums, studios, and design-forward spaces spread across four central neighbourhoods.
Founded in 2005 during Finland’s official Year of Design, the Design District celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2025. What began around Dianapuisto park has grown into a dynamic community where design, architecture and culture intersect daily. This anniversary year brings exhibitions, pop-ups, and events across the district—making it the perfect time to experience Helsinki’s design spirit in action.
The capital of Finnish design
Design in Helsinki isn’t limited to buildings—it’s woven into daily life. You’ll find Marimekko’s bold prints, Artek’s iconic stools, and sustainable textiles from Lapuan Kankurit in cafés, offices, hotels, and homes. Visit Lokal, a concept gallery showcasing Finnish ceramics, furniture, and art, or explore the many second-hand and vintage shops that celebrate the beauty of reuse and timeless design.
Designed for happiness: saunas, streets, and everyday beauty
Helsinki’s design legacy lives in the way the city is used. Saunas like Löyly and Allas Sea Pool blend sustainable architecture with seafront views. Market halls and trams reflect early 20th-century design thinking. New residential areas like Jätkäsaari and Kalasatama integrate wooden construction, nature and social spaces into everyday life. Want a deeper dive? The city is home to several design museums and exhibitions that explore both tradition and future innovation.
Plan your design & architecture adventure
Helsinki is easy to explore on foot, tram or bike. Many of the city’s design landmarks are clustered in central neighbourhoods or along scenic tram lines. Look up, wander, and don’t be afraid to take a side street—it’s where many of the best details hide.
