Amidst the Paper Mills

Kymenlaakso has long been a stronghold of Finland’s paper and pulp industry. In Kouvola, Alvar Aalto’s work is especially connected to the Anjala Paper Mill of Oy Tampella Ab and the Inkeroinen Board Mill. For the employees of these mills, Aalto designed the Tehtaanmäki district, with well-known row houses Mäntylä and Honkala, the Tehtaanmäki Primary School, and three apartment buildings. Altogether, the district includes 33 sites designed by Aalto.

From Kouvola, the journey continues to Kotka, home to the Sunila Sulphate Pulp Mill and Residential Area—true Aalto gems. Sunila represents Aalto’s international modernism, showcased at the World Expositions in Paris in 1937 and New York in 1939. Amidst lawns and pine groves you’ll find the factory manager’s residence Kantola, twelve row and apartment buildings, and several service buildings with distinctive architectural details.

The tour can also be complemented with a visit to the Verla Groundwood and Board Mill, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.