Alvar Aalto's Unesco Site Sunila
UNESCO World Heritage Site Sunila Residential Area in Kotka is the most extensive project of architect Alvar Aalto’s career. Sunila area combines Aalto’s architecture, the history of the forest industry, and a close connection to nature. Sunila is also an important part of the story of the Finnish welfare state. The Sunila residential area includes 12 row houses, apartment buildings and the mill manager’s residence Kantola with its seaside saunas. Experience a unique stay in a home crafted by Aalto himself and indulge in a specially arranged architect brunch for your group at the former factory manager’s residence in Kantola.
Sunila Aalto Homes Event
On the last weekend of August, dive into the private homes of Sunila during the Sunila Aalto Homes event. The residents of Sunila open their homes to visitors interested in the gems of UNESCO World Heratage Site. The event captivated all enthusiasts of architecture and design. Secure your tickets early for an unforgettable experience!
Kantola
Kantola, the manager’s residence of the Sunila mill, enjoys a magnificent seaside location. Discover how the mill manager and his family lived and entertained in Alvar Aalto’s architectural masterpiece, where large windows open onto views of the shoreline and surrounding pine forest.
Join us for an Architecture Brunch or a Mill Manager’s Dinner, host a meeting or celebration, relax in the sauna, or stay overnight. You can visit Kantola during the summer season or by prior reservation.
Architect Brunch
Explore the history of Sunila by visiting the manager’s residence in Kantola. Here, you can visit art exhibitions, attend captivating concerts, or host your own group event. Elevate your experience by indulging in a specially arranged architect brunch, a delightful touch in this culturally significant building set against the maritime backdrop of Sunila.
Sunila Is a Revolutionary Landmark of Modern Architecture
Built on the shores of the Gulf of Finland, in the delta of the Kymi River, Sunila is a groundbreaking example of modern architecture designed in harmony with nature. It also forms an important chapter in both the national and international story of the emergence of the Finnish welfare society.
Aino and Alvar Aalto designed the Sunila pulp mill and its residential area for employees in the late 1930s. The beautiful forest suburb was developed to provide homes for the mill manager, engineers, and other workers alike. The goal was not to create a grand architectural monument, but a place where people could enjoy the best possible quality of life.
The World’s Most Beautiful Factory and a Workers’ Paradise
At the time of its completion, the mill was described as the world’s most beautiful factory, while the workers’ homes were considered revolutionary in both quality and comfort. Many employees and their families said they felt as if they had arrived in paradise when they moved into the area.
The Sunila residential district includes twelve terraced and apartment buildings, the mill manager’s residence Kantola with its seaside saunas, and a collection of architecturally distinctive service buildings.
Today, nearly 90 years later, Sunila remains a vibrant living community. Its residents include elite hammer thrower Krista Tervo and Japanese footballer Atomu Tanaka, among many others.
