A masterpiece of functionalist architecture, Paimio Sanatorium is situated in a pine forest not far from the southwestern Finnish city of Turku.
The Aaltos designed every detail of the building, right down to the furniture, recognising that the patients’ environment could make a significant difference in their recovery.
The sanatorium stopped functioning as a hospital in 2015. Now it offers an exhibition, guided tours, a restaurant and hotel accommodation. It may be Finland’s best-known building internationally.
Mirkku Kullberg, CEO of the Paimio Sanatorium Foundation, shares her views on this unique Finnish architectural landmark.Video: ThisisFINLAND
By ThisisFINLAND staff, March 2026