Designer of the month - Ilmari Tapiovaara
Yrjö Ilmari Tapiovaara (1914-1999) was one of the most influential Finnish designers and interior designers of the 20th century. He was born into an artistically talented family, and his brothers Tapio, a graphic artist, and Nyrki, a film director, also had careers in the arts.
The chairs, tables and other objects designed by Tapiovaara are still highly valued and in high demand, especially abroad. The most famous chairs are Domus, Aslak, Kiki and Nana.
Aslak -chair, 1960s
Tapiovaara's design thinking emphasised pure functionalism. The purpose and structural concept of the product should be understandable at first glance. Tapiovaara studied at the general line of the Central School of Art and Design in Helsinki and after a year he moved to the interior design line. He gained international experience working with Le Corbusier in Paris and Mies van der Rohe in Chicago.
Chair, Model Toholampi, Laukaan puu, 1950s
Before setting up his own agency, Tapiovaara worked as the artistic director of Asko-Avonius and at Kerava Wood Industry, where he used both his artistic and commercial training. He set up his own design practice with his wife Annikki in Helsinki in 1950.
One of Tapiovaara's most significant works was Domus Academica, the student residence of the Student Union of the University of Helsinki, completed in 1947. The dormitory was designed by architect Pauli Salomaa and decorated by the Tapiovaara's. The result of this work is the Domus chair, which is still popular today and has become a design classic.
Domus -chair, 1950s
During his career, Tapiovaara received several awards, including the Pro Finlandia Medal in 1959 and the Finnish Cultural Foundation's Lifetime Achievement Award in 1986. He was awarded the title of professor in 1985. Ilmari Tapiovaara's contribution to Finnish design and interior design is indisputable, and his creations live on strongly in modern Finnish design.
Table, X-leg, 1950s
Take a look at the Ilmari Tapiovaara furniture in the Fargo collection. They have great collector's value and you will acquire a piece of important Finnish design history. Tapiovaara's beautiful furniture will stand the test of time and use.
Lukki-stool, Artek, Early 21st Century
Chairs "Wilma's chairs", Schaumannin vaneritehdas Oy, 1960s
Pair of chest of drawers, Keravan Puuteollisuus Oy, Mid 20th Century
Take a look at all of the Tapiovaara products
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