Alvar Aalto’s Säynatsalo and Muuratsalo

Säynätsalo Town Hall – An Architectural Masterpiece

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Designed by the legendary Finnish architect Alvar Aalto and completed in 1952, Säynätsalo Town Hall is a remarkable example of modernist brick architecture. Inspired by Italy, Aalto combined red brick with wooden details and lush greenery to create a warm, inviting civic space.

 

The building is functional and aesthetically striking, housing municipal offices now open to visitors, a library, and apartments. Visitors can explore its striking courtyard, grand staircase, and carefully crafted interiors that reflect Aalto’s signature organic approach to design.

 

Aalto’s Experimental House – A Private Sanctuary

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Nestled in the beautiful landscape of Muuratsalo, just a short paddling distance from Säynätsalo, lies Aalto’s Experimental House. Built as a summer residence for Aalto and his wife, Elissa, this secluded retreat served as a creative laboratory for architectural exploration.

 

The house is famous for its inner courtyard, where Aalto tested various brick patterns and construction techniques. Surrounded by forests and lake views, the Experimental House offers a glimpse into Aalto’s design philosophy and love for natural materials.

 

Paddling and Hiking around Muuratsalo

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Lake Päijänne and nearby islands offer excellent paddling spots. Muuratsalo has many marked and unmarked trails where visitors can hike through Central Finland’s typical landscapes—hills, ponds, pine forests, and areas full of berries and mushrooms. Along the trails are campfire spots where hikers can take a break and enjoy the surroundings.