Model 43 Armchair by Maija Heikinheimo and Alvar Aalto

This Model 43 armchair, designed by Maija Heikinheimo in collaboration with Alvar Aalto, is a striking example of Finnish modernism, where sculptural form meets human-centred function. Originally introduced in the 1930s by Artek, the chair showcases the signature Aalto vocabulary: soft curves, natural materials, and an emphasis on ergonomic comfort.

The defining feature of the Model 43 is its cantilevered frame, crafted from bent birch plywood. The arms sweep fluidly downward in a continuous gesture, giving the chair a sense of lightness and dynamism. The front legs extend seamlessly into the armrests, eliminating sharp corners and reinforcing the organic design language championed by Aalto and his contemporaries.

A gently curved, padded seat and backrest are upholstered in a vivid cobalt blue textile, offering a refined contrast to the warm, honey-toned birch. The deep blue leather-wrapped grips at the ends of the armrests add both tactile comfort and a subtle graphic accent.

This chair is not only a testament to timeless Scandinavian design but also to the enduring collaboration between Heikinheimo and Aalto, an alliance that produced objects of quiet innovation, deeply rooted in material honesty and human use. Ideal for both residential and public interiors, the Model 43 remains an icon of functional beauty.