16) “The diversity of timber in Alvar Aalto's architecture: forests, shelter and safety”, by Teija Isohauta

Alvar Aalto classical approach to architecture stems from his love of the simplistic Finnish rural log buildings. He describes wood as “the redeemer of architectural spirit, used not for sentimental reasons but as a timeless material of ancient traditions that is viable for construction and psychological and biological reasons”. The way he uses timber in his work is beautiful, being a profound interpretation of living as an integral part of the natural environment. With developments in technology he begins to play with bending timber and adapting it to ever growing needs.

Villa Mairea is a fine example of a transition from traditional to modern architecture. There is a constant theme of variable and advancing technology throughout the design. The morphing of technology is seen through the house as materials change from stone to glass to steel to stone slab, together forming a beautiful collaboration. The context is also exploited in the design with the emphasis on merging the inside with the outdoors and making them one.

Wood is a material not frequently seen in the Modern movement, but with the variety of ways Alvar Aalto uses wood, he creates a special character in the history of modern architecture.  Wood is a material that could be incorporated in to my designs as it improves quality and increases the feeling of aesthetic wellbeing.