What we like about it:

True North is a publication of an essay by Juhani Pallasmaa of the publishing project Käräjäkivet. All publications of the non-professional publishing project Käräjäkivet are handmade and made to order.

The book, which can easily be read in an hour, conveys a feeling for the atmosphere of the north and the design decisions of architects who work(ed) with these local conditions. In short chapters dedicated to thematically essential elements of the Finnish landscape and tradition, the work and approaches of Alvar Aalto and Tapio Wirkkala are analysed in relation to Finnish culture, coupled with international influences. They are often concerned with working with polarities and creating a harmony between them.

One gets a very intimate insight into the spirit of the north and the closely linked approach of these two architects.