Snøhetta masterplan transforms Alvar Aalto's Paimio Sanatorium into resort
The Norwegian architectural firm Snøhetta has presented a comprehensive plan aimed at rejuvenating the Paimio Sanatorium, designed by Alvar and Aino Aalto and completed in 1933, which has been unoccupied since the mid-2010s. This initiative, commissioned by the Paimio Sanatorium Foundation, envisions the site as a resort that integrates hospitality, wellness, and cultural experiences. Rooms that once housed patients will be converted into a hotel, while public areas will remain accessible to guests. Conservationists have lauded Snøhetta's vision. Collaborating on this project are local firms ALA Architects and Mustonen Architects. The foundation is pursuing €30 million in private funding along with a €10 million government subsidy. A decision from Unesco regarding the Aalto Works series, with Paimio as a significant element, is anticipated in July.
Key facts
- Snøhetta unveiled masterplan for Paimio Sanatorium
- Sanatorium completed in 1933 by Alvar and Aino Aalto
- Building vacant since mid-2010s
- Plan includes high-end hotel, public spaces, and summit venue
- Ten rooms restored to 1933 state with Aalto-designed fixtures
- Surgery wing to become exhibition hall and 700-seat auditorium
- €30m private investment needed plus €10m government grant
- Unesco decision due end of July for Aalto Works series
Entities
Artists
- Alvar Aalto
- Aino Aalto
- Kjetil Trædal Thorsen
- Tommi Lindh
- Mirkku Kullberg
- Juhani Pallasmaa
- Joseph Grima
Institutions
- Snøhetta
- Paimio Sanatorium Foundation
- ALA Architects
- Mustonen Architects
- Alvar Aalto Foundation
- Monocle
- Unesco
- Paimio Foundation
- UNESCO
- Finnish Building Protection Act
- Aalto Works
Locations
- Paimio Sanatorium
- Finland
- Nordics
- Europe
- Paimio