Aalto, Alvar (Hugo Alvar Henrik)

Finnish architect and designer. He was a pioneer of the Modern Movement in his native Finland. Initially working within the confines of the International Style, he later developed a unique architectural style, characterized by asymmetry, curved walls, and contrast of natural materials. He invented a new form of laminated bent-plywood furniture in 1932 and won many design awards for household and industrial items.

Aalto's buildings include Baker House, a Hall of Residence at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology 1947–49; Technical High School, Otaniemi, 1962–65; and Finlandia Hall, Helsinki, 1972.