About us

Institut finlandais was opened to the public in 1990. Designed by the architect Juhani Pallasmaa, the facilities of the institute are located in a former cinema, in the heart of the Quartier Latin in Paris, which is an attractive international meeting place and platform to present Finnish culture, know-how and society. The premises were renewed during a major renovation in 2017–2018, led by architect Pekka Littow’s Littow architectes, and opened again to the public in July 2018. Studio Joanna Laajisto designed the interior decorations.

Institut finlandais principal onsite activities consist of a gallery, a cinema and a café. Our café Coutume Institut is located in the Great Hall of the building, where we also regularly host talks and presentations. The furniture of the café is manufactured by the Finnish company Made by Choice, specialized in solid wood. Located on rue des Ecoles, the Galerie of Institut finlandais and its various exhibitions provide a showcase for Finnish art and design. The 60-seat auditorium on the ground floor offers regular film programs and other activities, such as Finnish language courses, led by Lea Lagerblom.

Institut finlandais in numbers:

– Great hall: 130m2, 80 seats
– Gallery: 40m2
– Meeting room (floor): 30m2, 20 seats
– Cinema: 70m2, 60 seats + 2 seats for disabled people
– Maximum capacity (Great hall and gallery): 195 people