Arabia: A Piece of Finnish History

Arabia isn’t just tableware—it’s part of the fabric of Finnish everyday life. For over 150 years, Arabia has shaped the way people in Finland and worldwide set their tables, share meals, and enjoy their coffee. It’s a brand with deep roots, known for its simple, beautiful design and its ability to feel both timeless and familiar.

From Factory Floor to Finnish Homes

Arabia was founded in 1873 in Helsinki, in a district that eventually took its name from the factory itself. The company was originally a branch of the Swedish porcelain company Rörstrand, and its early years focused on producing ceramics for the Russian Empire, which Finland was part of at the time.

But Arabia quickly carved out its own path. By the early 20th century, it had become Finland’s leading ceramics manufacturer, known for making everything from fine porcelain to more affordable everyday pieces. During the post-war era, when Finland was rebuilding, Arabia’s tableware became a symbol of the new, modern Finnish home—practical, durable, and tastefully designed.

The Golden Age of Design

The real turning point came in the mid-1900s. Arabia became a hub for design innovation, hiring a generation of artists and ceramicists who would go on to define Nordic design. Kaj Franck, a champion of minimalism and functionalism, created pieces that still feel modern today. Ulla Procopé gave us Ruska—the earthy, brown-toned dinnerware that became a staple in Finnish kitchens. And Birger Kaipiainen’s richly decorated ceramics brought a bold, playful energy to the mix.

These designers didn’t just make pretty plates. They changed how people thought about everyday objects—showing that utility and beauty didn’t have to be separate.

A Familiar Name in Finnish Culture

By the 1960s and ’70s, Arabia was everywhere: in cafés, in school canteens, in grandma’s cupboard. Owning a set of Arabia dishes became something of a rite of passage. The designs were practical enough for everyday use but stylish enough to last a lifetime. Some families still have pieces passed down from generation to generation—and they’re often still in use.

 Today: New Hands, Same Spirit

Arabia is now part of the Iittala brand under Fiskars Group, and while its manufacturing moved abroad in the 2010s, the design legacy continues in Finland. The Arabia design studio in Helsinki still creates new collections inspired by the same principles that made the brand a classic: clarity, quality, and warmth.

Whether it’s a new Teema plate or a vintage Paratiisi bowl, Arabia pieces still carry that same quiet charm they always have. They’re meant to be used, loved, and passed on—not just admired on a shelf.