Chapter 3 | The Building of Paimio SanatoriumMetalwork zinc or similar.”^862 The light fitting was hygienic, as the protective glass
kept the light free of accumulating dust. The final realised version was simpler than the
design and does not correspond to the architect’s drawing. For example, the night lamp
downwards-reflecting light was completely omitted from the final execution. In one of
the sketches drawn by the architect two shapes for the overhead light in the patient room
were outlined: one that was presented in the standard and the one that was eventually
realised.^863 It is difficult to draw any conclusions based on this regarding the degree
to which the manufacturer influenced the final design. It seems that the manufacturer
guided the architect towards lower production costs. Paavo Tynell’s contribution to the
design becomes evident in the sketch for the corridor lights, which was created by him
and on which he had entered comments about the structure of the fitting.^864 In other
words, Tynell drew the concept drawings for the corridor lights, which Aalto’s office
developed further into a second standard.^865 Prior to this, the architect and lighting
designer probably held discussions on what the light fitting should be like.
A table lamp was designed for the patient rooms, with the plan to order a total of 320
units in three different colours.^866 One of the architect’s sketches outlined the shape of
the patient room table lamp.^867 Again, it is difficult to discern, whether the sketch came
before the realisation or whether it was drafted based on the manufacturer’s suggestion.
The Building Committee approved the acquisition of a patient room lamp that could be
used both as a table and night lamp.^868 Only 180 patient room table lamps were bought
all in one colour and they were supplied by Idman company.^869 Idman was, at that time,
a reseller for Taito Oy lamp manufacturing company, so it is most likely that Paavo
Tynell was the designer of the lights purchased from Idman.^870 The lights in question
could be installed at the end of the bed or placed on the bedside table.
862 Drawing No. 50-191. AAM.
863 Drawing No 50-753. AAM.
864 Drawing No. 50-721. AAM
865 Drawing No. 50-180. AAM.
866 A list of lamps of the Sanatorium of Southwest Finland created by Alvar Aalto’s architectural practice. Documents
related to the Paimio Sanatorium project. AAM.
867 Drawing No. 50-752. AAM.
868 Building Committee July 28, 1932, Section 6. PSA.
869 Building Committee August 18, 1932, Section 3. PSA.
870 According to an advertisement promoting artistic light fittings of the Taito company, in Domus magazine, its lamps
were mainly sold by the Stockmann Department Store and Idman company. Oy Taito Ab 1933, p. 3.