Undoubtedly one of the most important modern European architects. Taking architectural rationalism as his starting point, he moved beyond a purely formal schematic approach, thanks to his skilled use of natural materials, and his painstaking study of undulating surface and line effects, of open plan design and the priority given to the creating of a dynamic interaction between the building and its surrounding environment. Aalto’s creative output has ranged from the design of glass objects and furnishing to architectural design and painting. His glass vase collection, known as Aalto, is renowned all over the world and is an expression of his great skill in the design field. Starting from a humble spoon, right up to a complete town (he in fact produced urban development plans for both Finland and Sweden), the work of Aalto is symbolized by his characteristic “wave” (“aalto” being in fact the Finnish word for wave).