Journal Entry

Finland is famous for modern architecture, particularly the works of Eliel and Eero Saarinen and Alvar Aalto.  Finland is less well-known for traditional buildings, but there are some very attractive ones here.

People who know me know which I prefer.  But, judge for yourself!  Here are photos of ten buildings, five traditional and five modern. 

Oulu CathedralIt's after ten at night Aleksanterinkatu streetHelsinki Architectural detailHelsinki Wooden Warehouses, OuluNow these serve as shops and cafes Traditional Building in OuluAcross the square from Oulu Cathedral

I have tried hard to be fair.  Finland has plenty of massive, Soviet-style apartment blocks with no discernable landscaping around them.  I have not photographed those.  Similarly, Finland has plenty of tumble-down sheds in the woods.  I have not photographed those either.  Also, I have shown you two buildings from Helsinki and three from Oulu in each category.

Finlandia TaloHelsinki's Concert Hall KiasmaHelsinki's Museum of Contemporary Art Oulu Public LibrarySeen from across the harbor Office BuildingOulu Modern BuildingOn the campus of the University of Oulu