Iittala
Iittala in short
Iittala is a Finnish brand established in 1881, renowned for the Aalto vase (1936) and Kaj Franck’s Teema tableware. Collections remain in production for decades and are designed to be mixed and matched. Hand-wash mouth-blown glassware; Teema is generally dishwasher-safe.
Facts and Background
| Topic | Overview |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1881, Iittala (Finland) |
| Renowned for | Aalto vase, Teema, Kastehelmi |
| Categories | Glassware, tableware, cutlery, home décor |
| Price point | Mid-range to premium |
| Signature | Functional Finnish design |
Kaj Franck purposefully designed Teema without ornamentation so that individual pieces across different ranges could be effortlessly combined — a guiding principle the brand still upholds today.
Key Collections
- Teema — essential everyday tableware in solid colours, designed to stack.
- Kastehelmi — glassware featuring delicate raised droplet detailing.
- Aalto vases — mouth-blown art glass, available in various sizes.
- Cutlery and glasses — minimalist forms that transcend individual ranges.
Caring for Glass and Tableware
Mouth-blown glass is naturally more delicate than machine-pressed glass.
- Wash mouth-blown vases by hand in lukewarm water.
- Avoid thermal shock: never pour cold water into warm glass.
- Teema tableware is generally dishwasher- and microwave-safe.
- Stack plates with a soft cloth between them to prevent scratching.
Buying in the Netherlands
Iittala is widely available in the Netherlands through design boutiques, department stores, and online retailers. Because collections remain in production for decades, you can easily build and expand a set over time.
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Frequently asked questions about Iittala
- Who designed the Aalto vase?
- Alvar Aalto, in 1936. The iconic organic waves are still produced by skilled glassblowers today.
- Is Iittala tableware dishwasher-safe?
- Teema and most ceramic tableware ranges are dishwasher-safe; mouth-blown vases should always be washed by hand.
- Why are the collections so easy to mix and match?
- Kaj Franck intentionally stripped away surface decoration, ensuring pieces from different lines complement one another effortlessly.
- Do collections remain available long-term?
- Yes, many core designs have been in continuous production for decades, allowing you to add to your set over time.
Geschreven door
Brands.nl editorial team
Brand editors — interior, fashion & lifestyle
Brands.nl is an independent Dutch brand guide that sells nothing itself. Our editors follow brands, materials and collections and describe them independently, so you know what you are buying and can find similar brands.
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Laatst inhoudelijk gecontroleerd: 18 september 2026