The Reitz Collection – See The Soul of a Collector and the Spirit of Helsinki.

Mika Vepsalainen
6 days ago
2 min read

Join us for a visit to the fascinating Reitz collection tucked away in a historic functionalist building in Helsinki.

The Reitz Collection invites you to explore one of Finland’s most captivating private art and antiques collections, now a public museum with a story as fascinating as its objects. Once the elegant home of Lauri and Maria Reitz, this refined space now showcases a wide array of treasures: masterpieces of Finnish art, rare antique silver, European porcelain, historic weapons, and exquisite timepieces, each piece hand-picked with the discerning eye of one of Finland’s most passionate collectors.

Lauri Reitz (1893–1959) was more than a successful construction mogul. He was a visionary who helped shape modern Helsinki. After founding Lauri Reitz Oy in 1928, he oversaw the construction of more than 20 residential buildings, cinemas, public buildings, and private villas, many of which still define Helsinki’s cityscape.

As his professional success grew, so did his personal passion for collecting. It all began in 1915 with the purchase of a modest tin vase for seven Finnish markka, approximately € 29 today! That humble piece sparked a lifelong journey that would result in one of Finland’s most unique private collections.

Reitz believed that “objects are very near and dear to me,” and he approached collecting with impeccable taste. His collection grew over the decades to include Finnish art from some of the most celebrated names in the nation’s history.

With guidance from trusted art dealers and scholars, Reitz acquired objects not just for their rarity, but for their beauty and personal significance. His guiding philosophy was “only acquire objects that gratify you personally… never buy ugly pieces, however old or valuable they may be.”

The museum is housed in the family’s original home, built by Reitz himself in 1938. The building is a great example of international functionalism with spacious stairwells, large windows, oak parquet flooring, and elegant detailing throughout.

After Maria Reitz died In 1971, the family fortune was transformed into a non-profit cultural foundation, and the home turned a museum opened a year later. Today, the interior still retains its original warm atmosphere, offering you an intimate, almost private view into the world of Lauri Reitz and his family.

Although there is no museum shop or café, you’re in for a treat just downstairs: Restaurant Elite, a legendary artists’ haunt and Helsinki institution, is the perfect place to relax after your visit with a glass of wine or a classic Finnish meal.

The museum is not fully accessible.