Upon its completion, the Paimio Sanatorium was heralded as an
international success, and established the basis for Alvar Aalto’s
reputation as one of the most notable modern architects in the world.
The book takes the reader on a tour of Paimio: the main building
comprised of separate wings, the recreational grounds, staff residences
and other buildings that served the sanatorium. Also presented are the
historical stages of the sanatorium, from the initial architectural
competition to the closure of the hospital. The sanatorium, now more
than 80 years old, was extended and renovated numerous times as its
functions changed. In addition to its unique architecture, Paimio is
also known for its fine interior design solutions. The lamps, furniture,
and other details designed by Aalto are characterized, in addition to
their practicality, by their beauty. Hence many of them are coveted
design objects and are still in serial production. The book’s versatile
selection of illustrations, from historical pictures and original
drawings to new color photographs, creates a superb broad view of this
gem of functionalist architecture.
