Client: Aalto University
Collaborator: Pablo Riquelme
2018 Aalto University—Väre building, Espoo, Finland
Size: 30m2
Aalto University has long been the cradle of generations of Finnish architects, designers, and artists. At its heart, the workshops stand as vibrant hubs where innovation, creativity, and craftsmanship come to life. Inspired by this spirit, Aalto Work-Shop was conceived as an inviting platform for the public and the university community to connect and engage. Here, students and faculty showcase their latest works and publications, while visitors are welcomed to explore and purchase selected Aalto products.
The shop’s design draws from the essence of a workshop—where tools are meticulously arranged and creativity flows freely. A custom-designed modular pegboard display and storage system, inspired by workshop settings, allows for adaptable layouts that evolve with changing products and seasonal sales.
Set within a windowless corridor, the shop was designed to be an intriguing gathering point. Shelves are arranged at inviting angles, revealing different sections of products as visitors move through the space. Integrated seating areas encourage moments of pause—whether for reading, reflection, or simply taking in the atmosphere.
Aalto Work-Shop is more than a retail space; it is an ever-evolving showcase of ideas, craftsmanship, and the enduring legacy of Aalto’s creative community.
