News

Design Factory turns shipping containers into art

Published:
Aalto Design Factory has transformed their old storage containers into captivating works of outdoor art titled ‘Bitti’ and ‘Atomi’, merging functionality with artistic vision to enhance the campus environment.
A red and black striped container with 'Aalto Design Factory' written on it, next to white birch trees.

The initiative was led by sculptor and Design Factory Printshop Master Erwin Laiho, who was in charge of both the artistic concept and project execution. 

“To bring more light and openness to the back alley, this artwork does not add, but subtracts. The mirror-polished steel panels appear almost as if they were cutouts of the containers, extending the natural scenery,” Laiho explains. "Until now, the containers have been used as external storage space with non-existent effort on landscaping or brand image.”

According to Anna Kuukka, Design Factory’s Design Coordinator, the project offers a new standpoint on radical creativity driving the community’s work. 

“By integrating art, design, and technical expertise, we transformed these everyday objects into elements that add value to the shared campus space,” Kuukka says. “It also highlights our collaborative spirit, with nearly half of our staff participating in some way during the production!”

The installation invites the community to experience the reimagined containers in the backyard of the Viima building, Puumiehenkuja 5, Espoo.

Aalto Design Factory is a pioneering hub for product development education, research and practice. 

----------------


Photos: George Atanassov

Additional information & access to more photos:

Anna Kuukka, Design Coordinator
anna.kuukka@aalto.fi
+358 50 537 2664

Red and black containers with 'Aalto Design Factory' written vertically on one. The sky is visible in the background.
Vertical red and black beams with 'Aalto Design Factory' text. Autumn trees and brick building in the background.
A red container with vertical white stripes and 'Aalto Design Factory' written on it, surrounded by buildings and trees.
Red bars with black text reading 'Aalto Design Factory'. A building window in the background.
  • Updated:
  • Published:
Share
URL copied!

Read more news

See all
Seven people holding large checks at PORT_2026 Innovation Challenge event. Checks awarded to teams NEXOS and KOWI.
Press releases Published:

PORT_2026 brings Aalto students together to tackle culture, media, and climate challenges

Nearly 60 Aalto students joined the PORT_2026 Innovation Challenge, developing and pitching solutions addressing culture, media, and climate challenges.
Attendees networking at Demo Day
Campus, University Published:

Demo Day breaks records in 2026: Inside Otaniemi’s fastest growing startup showcase

Hosted by Aalto Startup Center and A Grid, Demo Day brought together nearly 800 visitors, 90 startup booths, and over 75 investors. What began as a grassroots gathering in 2018 has grown into one of Finland’s most vibrant startup showcases.
A close-up of numerous small, rectangular particles with rounded edges, appearing grey on a dark background.
Research & Art Published:

Catalysis in a new light: Microscale interactions could enhance clean energy technologies

A new study provides a more detailed view of how catalysts function during chemical reactions. The discovery could help develop more efficient materials for applications such as green hydrogen production and a more sustainable chemical industry.
Otakaari 3
Campus, Studies Published:

The campus welcomes its third Learning Lounge

Learning Lounge makes a new expansion into Restaurant Aalto Kvarkki on 16 March.
See all