Corpus sanum in modo sano?

Alvar Aalto, the great Finnish architect and designer, had his first practice in Jyväskylä, where many buildings were designed by him including what is now the Alvar Aalto Museo. This exhibit shows his furnishings for a sanatorium. The examining couch is in his trademark plywood, and the fur-lined sack looks as if it would be very comforting for someone in shock, or with hypothermia. The chair of course is classic Aalto.

I hadn't previously seen so much of his stuff in one place. I was impressed by the combination of simplicity with natural materials. Without ever striving for effect, the work contrives to be both modern and timeless, and very human.

When Oscar Wilde was dying he is reported to have been tormented by the ghastly wallpaper in his room. At our times of weakness and vulnerability, good design and good style can help to make life bearable.