Heikki Orvola (b. 1943) is one of the defining names in Finnish design, with a body of work that spans an impressive range of products and materials, from glass and ceramics to metal and textiles. Among his best-known creations are Iittala’s Kivi tealight holders and Arabia’s 24h tableware collection.
Working both as an industrial designer and as an artist, Orvola has left a lasting mark on the aesthetics of everyday life in Finland. His clear, timeless design language continues to feel as fresh as ever. In 2002, he was awarded the honorary title of Professor.
Heikki Orvola – a master of form and material
Born in Helsinki, Heikki Orvola spent his childhood in Oulu before studying at the Institute of Industrial Arts in Helsinki in the early 1960s. Renowned designer Kaj Franck invited the young Orvola to join the Nuutajärvi glassworks in 1968, the very year he graduated. This marked the beginning of a long and remarkably versatile career at the heart of Finnish design.
From everyday objects to art glass
In the field of glass design, Orvola has created both industrially produced items and unique art pieces. He is perhaps best known for the much-loved Kivi tealight holder, designed for Iittala in 1988, which has since become a sought-after collector’s item. Other notable works include the Aika tableware collection for Iittala (2006) and the Arabia 24h tableware series (1996), for which Orvola received the Design Plus award at the Ambiente International fair in Frankfurt.
International experiences, such as his time at the Pilchuck Glass School in the United States, have further enriched his creative expression and technical mastery.
A long and celebrated career
Over the years, Orvola has received numerous prestigious honours, including the Pro Finlandia Medal in 1984 and the Kaj Franck Design Prize in 1998. In 2002, he was awarded the honorary title of Professor. His glass and ceramic works have been featured in countless solo and group exhibitions around the world and are held in the collections of many leading museums.
Orvola’s portfolio also includes textiles designed for Marimekko as well as official tableware commissions for the Finnish state.
Who: Heikki Orvola
- Finnish designer (b. 1943).
- Education: Institute of Industrial Arts, Helsinki.
- Worked extensively with glass, ceramics and textiles, as well as in industrial design.
- His design language is defined by simplicity, clarity and functionality.
- Known for pieces such as Iittala’s Kivi tealight holders and Arabia’s 24h tableware collection.
Read more in Design Stories
View all products
