Pertti Santalahti

Pertti Santalahti (born 1941) is a Finnish designer whose work spans furniture and glass, and is firmly rooted in the traditions of Scandinavian modernism. Educated in Finland, he developed a calm, refined design language that emphasizes clarity, proportion, and craftsmanship, with a strong focus on everyday usability and material sensitivity. His work reflects the Nordic belief that design should be functional, durable, and quietly expressive.

Santalahti is particularly known for his seating designs, including a series of elegant lounge chairs and armchairs from the 1960s and 1970s. These works often feature slender wooden frames—frequently in teak or birch—combined with upholstered seats and backs, creating furniture that appears light while offering excellent comfort. The chairs are characterized by gentle curves, balanced proportions, and careful detailing, prioritizing ergonomics over visual excess.

In addition to furniture, Santalahti also designed glass objects, contributing to Finland’s strong tradition of glass design. His glasswork includes bowls, vessels, and decorative objects distinguished by clear forms, restrained profiles, and subtle variations in thickness and transparency. Like his furniture, these pieces emphasize material honesty and simplicity, allowing the qualities of glass – light, clarity, and weight – to define the aesthetic.