Kantola, designed by Alvar Aalto, is part of the culturally significant Sunila residential area in Kotka, Finland. This unique factory manager’s home has always been more than just a residence – it’s a space for hosting and gathering together.
THE SUNILA RESIDENTIAL AREA in Kotka, Finland, is an unparalleled gem of Finnish architecture and urban planning, a monumental project by the architectural duo Aino and Alvar Aalto. Designed for the factory’s workforce, the area was developed between 1936 and 1954 on a scenic forested hillside by the sea. The park-like forest suburb with its gleaming white buildings and a majestic pulp mill rising alongside is Alvar Aalto’s largest realized project.
The Sunila residential area is an unparalleled gem of Finnish architecture and urban planning.
Kantola, originally built as the home of Sunila’s first factory manager, Lauri Kanto, also served as a secondary space for official functions and guest accommodations. The upper floor was reserved for family privacy, while the ground floor hosted everyday life, guests, and various gatherings—just as it does today.
From home to clubhouse
Kantola was home to four factory managers before it was retired from residential use in the early 1980s. It was then transformed into a venue for official functions and a clubhouse. In the mid-1980s, half of Kantola's ownership was transferred to the city of Kotka, leading to the creation of Sunilan Kantola Oy. Today, all shares belong to the city of Kotka.
Even today, Kantola invites you to host, meet, celebrate, and stay – much like in the days of the factory managers. The premises are available for rent to both businesses and private individuals, offering a truly unique setting for events, exhibitions, and concerts.
Pine grove and architecture in perfect harmony
Behind the stern exterior, Kantola's captivating interior unfolds – seamlessly connecting the outdoor spaces with the ground-floor hall. Expansive windows blend the characteristic pine forest of Sunila with the indoor environment.
The timeless character of Kantola is forever captivating.
A sheltered bay accentuates the area’s distinctive allure. The Sunila factory is visible from the windows – a reminder of a time when the factory was under the watchful eye of its managers even during their leisure hours.
Kantola’s interior primarily features Artek’s classic designs, with Johanna Gullichsen’s textiles recently added. Although the furnishings honor the era’s style, they aren’t the building’s originals but have been carefully sourced from other Sunila locations, including the old staff club that has since been dismantled.
Sunila is also home to Aalto-designed unique furniture, including factory manager Lauri Kanto’s desk, crafted by Aino Aalto for the factory office.
Sunila Aalto homes 24.–25.8.2024
- A weekend of architecture and interior design in Sunila, Kotka
- Introducing 18 private homes, designed by Aino and Alvar Aalto
- Follow @sunilan_aaltokodit and @sunilankantola on Instagram
See also:
• Designs by Alvar Aalto >
• Designs by Aino Aalto >
Text: Noora Räsänen Edit: Mira Ahola Images and rights: Karri Laitinen, Ville Sakki, Sunilan Kantola Oy