Aalto armchair 401, black - Zebra

Armchair 401 is a classic, that was designed by Alvar Aalto in 1933 and as many other Aalto classics, the lightweight and streamlined armchair 401 was seen in the Paimio Sanatorium interior. The high back and offered privacy for the patients and its calm appearance suited well for the Sanatorium. The iconic Zebra armchair comes with soft wool fabric upholstery. Originally, the classic Zebra fabric was discovered by Aino Aalto during her European travels. The classic Zebra fabric brings a touch of the wild to any interior as cushions, posters and bags, too.

Still crafted from Finnish birch in traditional methods, the upholstered armchair 401 has been a part of Finnish interiors for many decades and continues to charm new generations. The black and white Zebra is perhaps most closely identified with the iconic armchair 400, yet also available for the armchair 402, and stools 60 and E60. As many other Aalto classics, the Zebra fabric elevates any interior. 

Alvar Aalto

Huonekalu- ja Rakennustyötehdas Korhonen was founded in Turku, Finland in 1910. The furniture factory was founded by Finnish carpenters Otto Korhonen, Otto Suonperä, David Kinnunen and Fredrik Lundqvist. In addition to furniture, the HKT Korhonen also manufactured construction materials, such as window frames and doors.

The story of HKT Korhonen is deeply intertwined with Artek. Alvar Aalto’s architectural office began collaborating with the HKT Korhonen in the late 1920s and the factory started to manufacture Aalto’s furniture for various projects, such as Paimio Sanatorium. Simultaneously, Alvar Aalto also began experimenting with bending solid wood together with carpenter Otto Korhonen. The fruitful collaboration resulted in an L-leg which became to be the standard component for Aalto’s furniture design. 

The HKT Korhonen furniture factory was owned by the family Korhonen until 2014 when it was acquired by Artek. With the new ownership, the furniture factory was also given a new name; A-Factory. The majority of Artek furniture is still made at the factory in Kaarina, Finland.