Alvar Aalto Guide, The

Scandinavian Review, Autumn 1997

The Alvar Aalto Guide by Michael Trencher New York: Princeton Architectural Press, 1996 243 pages. B/W photos. Paper. $24.95

This guidebook is an especially appropriate publication to accompany the centennial celebration of the birth of Finland's master architect. Even without traveling to Finland, one could learn a lot about Aalto through the author's introductory chapters, as well as through the descriptions of buildings. But for the architectural tourist, this long-awaited study is invaluable. Each entry includes information on addresses, access, directions, along with plans, photographs, and very readable descriptions. The guide's utility is further enhanced by an extensive reference section, which includes bibliographic notes, maps, resources for touring, and chronological, typological, and alphabetical indexes. Aalto preferred that people see his buildings rather than read about them. Now, thanks to this handy and beautiful guide, it will be easier for pilgrims to experience Aalto's work first hand.