Iittala

Since starting their glass factory in 1881, Finnish design brand Iittala has pioneered avant-garde design and coloured glass. Iittala brings together exciting, surprising and inspiring elements of contemporary culture to create something original and insightful while celebrating art and craft. They are famous for collaborating with skilled designers and artists who share their vision of experimental, playful, bold design with a creative edge.

Shop Iittala products

Iittala identity

“We want to show all the shades of life, painted with the colours of glass. As a pioneer of Finnish design, we celebrate contemporary culture, art and craft. Instead of following in other’s footsteps, we will continue to seek new ways to inspire, innovate, and stand for the things that matter to us and to our community.”

Visit Iittala’s webstore

Aalto vase

Alvar Aalto (1898-1976) is a recognized master of modern architecture and design. Aalto’s unique aesthetic helped define Finnish design and introduce it to a global audience. Designed in 1936, first introduced at the 1937 Paris World Fair, the collection of vases including the famous Aalto vase caused a sensation with its dynamic wavy design that differed from art glassware of the time. Today, the legendary vase is one of the world’s most famous glass objects and a timeless staple for Iittala.

I feel at home here. I’ve been coming here for longer than I can remember. My grandmother worked in packaging and my father was one of the most well-respected glassblowers. In my fifty years working here, I have seen the highs and lows. I remember working around the clock with designer Timo Sarpaneva, making experiments. And I’ve seen the challenges. Some things never chance, though. In the changing rooms we talk about ice hockey. And matters of the heart.

Heikki Punkari

Glassblower

Our heritage

The Iittala Glass Factory was founded in 1881 in Iittala village, Finland. The history of Iittala does not follow a linear path but rather a complex network that is deeply embedded within the cultural, political and social evolution of Finnish culture.

Today, Iittala continues to be a pioneer in timeless Finnish design. By working with visionary, creative minds Iittala continues to build on the knowledge handed down from Iittala’s legendary designers and master craftspeople. Iittala continues to inspire better living.

Experience Iittala

Iittala welcomes you to visit three unique design destinations in Finland, celebrating the future and the heritage of the brand: Iittala & Arabia Design Centre in Helsinki, Iittala Glass Factory & Design Museum Iittala in Iittala, and Design Museum Nuutajärvi in Nuutajärvi.