Iittala’s Teema dinnerware collection is an undisputed classic in the world of Finnish design. Created by award-winning and internationally acclaimed designer Kaj Franck (1911-1989), also referred to as the conscience of Finnish design, this dinnerware collection truly represents timeless simplicity. Teema was first created by Franck in 1952, originally being introduced as Kilta. Kilta was the first full set of interchangeable oven-to-table ware to be manufactured, as well as the first tableware to be sold by the individual piece in order for consumers to buy what they could afford during this post-war period. However, Franck slightly revised this original design in 1981 and renamed the collection to Teema, the multifunctional and high-quality tableware that we now know today.

Kaj Franck believed in the importance of sustainability and moderation in respect to design, and these pioneering beliefs led him to remove any excessiveness in his creations, leaving only the essential elements. Franck once said, “Objects should always be appropriate, durable and functional,” and Teema dinnerware embodies just that, being derived from basic forms and geometric elements; the circle, the square, and the rectangle. This timeless design is also coupled with high quality, durable vitreous porcelain. This material gives the dinnerware a smooth, sleek, and modern look as well as long-lasting strength, allowing the collection to be dishwasher, oven, freezer and microwave safe for everyday use. The tableware ranges from plates and bowls to serving dishes and mugs, catering to all dining needs while doing so in functional, sophisticated style.

Teema’s practical and versatile nature also invites the purchaser to mix and match the collection with iittala’s entire range of dinnerware and glassware, such as iittala Origo and iittala Kartio, as well as the numerous colors within Teema’s own collection. The continuous production of Teema decade after decade has brought forth new, unique colorways that can be combined to create a playful yet cohesive table setting. Its minimalistic design finds a liveliness in color, as Franck said when describing Teema, “Color is the only decoration.” Limited edition releases and new collection drops have included vintage blue, vintage brown, linen, honey, powder and countless more. While the original white colorway highlights the elegant design, the fun colors bring a personal touch to the user.

The guiding principles behind the creation of Teema dinnerware have paved the way for Finnish design and beyond, setting a new standard for tableware and contemporary home design. Teema’s simplistic beauty in relation to its usability has made the collection a standard household item in many homes around the world, and especially rare to not see in a Finnish household. The dinnerware has become a staple even outside the home, such as in hospitals and schools, showing its widespread-use and adaptability. Teema’s international acclaim has resulted in this classic dinnerware becoming a true symbol of Scandinavian design and Kaj Franck’s legacy. In a world of fast paced, ever-changing trends and consumer demands, Teema has stayed true to its original design and stood the test of time. Continuously celebrated for its innovation, function, durability and everlasting beauty, Teema dinnerware is a piece to be used by its owners for decades and passed down to generations to come.