The Highlight of My Helsinki Journey: The Iittala & Arabia Design Centre
Underneath a clear Helsinki sky, the morning air was crisp. I was still basking in the afterglow of yesterday’s inspiring visit to the Marimekko headquarters and its delightful Maritori canteen. Today, however, a new design pilgrimage awaited. I boarded a tram, my destination the hallowed grounds of Finnish design: the Iittala & Arabia Design Centre. My heart beat a little faster with anticipation for the vintage tableware I hoped to discover.
You might wonder, why vintage and not the beautiful current collections? For me, it comes down to a personal travel philosophy. While I admire many contemporary pieces, the practical reality of hauling heavy ceramics across continents in a suitcase is daunting. Therefore, my rule when traveling is to focus on what is truly unique to the place: items you can’t find back home. This means either limited editions or one-of-a-kind vintage pieces that have stood the test of time.
I had heard whispers that the shop at the Iittala & Arabia Design Centre was a special place—an official brand store that also curated a remarkable collection of high-quality vintage items. My mission was to see if the rumors were true. Venturing out to verify such claims firsthand is the essence of my journey as CityNomix.
As the tram neared my stop, an iconic red-brick building came into view. The word ‘ARABIA’, arranged vertically on its facade, served as a silent, stoic invitation to the treasure hunt that lay within.
The building itself is a testament to Finnish design history. In stark contrast to its historic brick exterior, the interior is flooded with sunlight pouring through a modern, glass-enclosed corridor. This seamless fusion of old and new felt like a time tunnel connecting design’s past, present, and future. What discoveries awaited me at the end of this corridor of light?
A Journey Through Design’s Timeline at the Iittala & Arabia Design Centre
Upon entering the store, visitors are greeted by the latest product collections. Cool blue glassware and modern tableware are displayed with minimalist elegance, showcasing the timeless appeal of Nordic design. These pieces are the polished result of decades of design evolution, perfectly suited for contemporary lifestyles.
However, my feet carried me past the new and towards the corners dedicated to the past. Here, carefully curated displays recreated scenes from a classic Nordic home. A set of tableware with delicate black line art was arranged on a wooden bed tray, a Finnish newspaper resting nearby. It was a poignant reminder that design is not merely about objects, but about life itself.
Of course, a prominent section was dedicated to Arabia’s most iconic series, Paratiisi. Meaning ‘paradise’ in Finnish, the collection, designed by Birger Kaipiainen, is famous for its bold and vibrant patterns of pansies and fruits. Seeing the classic color version next to the modern ‘Black Paratiisi’ was a powerful display of enduring design.
Limited Edition Arabia Finland: The Must-Have Arabia Stamps Mug Helsinki
Among all the beautiful items, one piece was a non-negotiable purchase for me: the exclusive ‘Arabia Stamps Mug‘, available only at the Iittala & Arabia Design Centre. At first glance, it’s a simple white mug printed with various logos. However, for a vintage hunter, this mug is a veritable Rosetta Stone.
The mug features a collection of Arabia’s historical logos, chronologically arranged from its founding in 1873 to the present day. This means that with this single mug, you can cross-reference the backstamp on any piece of vintage Arabia to determine its era. It’s more than a souvenir; it’s a practical tool. This item, unavailable in stores outside of Finland, is one of the best Finnish design souvenirs you can find.
Diving into the Vintage Section: The Real Hunt Begins
Finally, I arrived at the main event: the vintage tableware section. It was a treasure trove. Large wooden carts and shelves were packed with dishes from different eras and in countless designs. There were soup tureens, gravy boats, and large platters of shapes I’d never seen before. Each piece whispered a story of past family dinners and cherished moments.
My first stop was a small cart where new vintage arrivals were gathered. This is a pro tip: always check this spot first for the best, unpicked finds. I felt like an archaeologist, carefully examining each item, feeling its weight, and tracing the details of its design with my fingertips.
The selection was heavily skewed towards Arabia, with fewer pieces from Iittala. Nevertheless, the variety was astounding, and I could have spent hours just admiring the craftsmanship. I found sturdy, rustic plates from the post-war era and elegant coffee cups with the fluid lines of the 1970s. My shopping basket quickly filled with pieces that I had fallen in love with at first sight.
Your CityNomix Guide to Conquering the Iittala & Arabia Design Centre
To help you have the best possible experience, I’ve compiled some practical information. Consider this your guide to a successful treasure hunt.
How to Get There and Essential Information
The Design Centre is located in Helsinki’s historic Arabia district. The easiest way to get there from the city center is by tram. Take tram number 6 or 8 to the ‘Arabiankatu’ stop. The journey takes about 20 minutes and offers a pleasant view of the city’s neighborhoods. The iconic brick building will be right in front of you.
Operating Hours and Facility Details
Store hours can vary by season, so it’s always wise to check the official website before your visit. The complex includes the ‘Design Museum Arabia’, where you can delve into the brand’s history, and the ‘Iittala Arabia Design Centre store‘, which is the focus for shoppers. For those looking for the ‘must buy from Arabia factory shop‘ deals, this store also functions as an outlet, offering discounts on select current items. My personal recommendation, however, remains the vintage section.
Official Website: https://www.iittala.com/en-gb/universe/destinations/arabia-museum
Here is the location on Google Maps:
Tips on Tax-Free Shopping and Staff Interaction
For international visitors, new items are eligible for Iittala tax free shopping. Remember to bring your passport and ask for the necessary paperwork at the checkout. However, please note that this does not apply to vintage items, which are considered second-hand goods and are not eligible for a tax refund. Knowing this in advance will make your checkout process smoother.
Don’t hesitate to talk to the staff. During my visit, I was delighted to find a Japanese-speaking staff member, but everyone was friendly and knowledgeable. When I was contemplating a large, unusual bowl, a local staff member approached me with a smile. “That’s a rare one,” she said. “We see so many beautiful things, but we can’t take them all home. It makes us happy when someone like you finds a piece and gives it a new life.” Her words truly resonated with me.
From Helsinki to My Home: The Treasures I Found
After finishing my shopping, I took a moment to relax in the store’s café. The wall behind the cash register is a museum in itself, displaying a stunning array of historic cups and saucers. I settled onto a sofa by the large windows, gazing out at the green trees and blue sky. It was the perfect, peaceful end to my hunt.
And now, allow me to share a few of the treasures I brought back from Helsinki.
First and foremost, the exclusive Iittala & Arabia Design Centre historical logo mug. It is both a practical tool and a symbol of this memorable trip.
Next, some of the vintage pieces that captured my heart. A charming tea set with a geometric pattern in lovely pastel tones. This will surely elevate any afternoon break.
I also found a large bowl in the exact size I had been searching for. Perfect for serving salads or pasta, it’s destined to be a centerpiece on my table.
This plate with a retro floral pattern and earthy tones felt nostalgic and warm. It will be perfect for serving hearty stews and other comfort foods.
A large, simple plate with an understated beige rim. Its versatility is its strength; it will complement any dish, from a main course to a one-plate meal.
And finally, I was thrilled to find plates from the popular Crocus series. The delicate, monochrome floral design is chic, modern, and timeless.
Conclusion: Why the Iittala & Arabia Design Centre is a Must-Visit
The Iittala & Arabia Design Centre in Helsinki is far more than just a shopping destination. It is a place where you can physically touch the history of Finnish design and take a piece of that story home with you. The experience of sifting through decades of design to find a unique treasure is a joy that cannot be replicated. It’s a journey of discovery.
The allure of these pieces—their history, their craftsmanship, and the stories they hold—makes the challenge of carrying them home worthwhile. They are more than just objects; they are vessels of culture and memory. If you find yourself in Helsinki, I urge you to set aside some time for this design sanctuary. You may just find that one special piece that is destined to brighten your everyday life.
