Scandinavian influences are hallmarks of contemporary design, particularly home objects that combine form with function and sleek good looks. Look no farther than Iittala, a leading design company that dates back to 1881, when the company was founded as a glass plant in southern Finland. In the 1920s and 1930s, Iittala made the transition to modern home décor and tableware, led by legendary Finnish designers Kaj Franck (1911-1989) and Alvar Aalto (1898-1976). Franck’s question, “Is not the ultimate meaning of beauty to be essential, functional, justified, and correct?” guides the Iittala philosophy today, and the company continues to spotlight work by premier Scandinavian designers. Although you can browse through Iittala’s spectacular offerings at the corporate Web site, to bring Iittala home, you’ll have to look elsewhere. Aalto.com has the classic Savoy vase (pictured), designed by Aalto for the 1937 Paris World’s Fair, in a multitude of colors ($48 to $123). At FinnStyle, the line runs the gamut from cookware to flatware; we were charmed by the Moomin Collectibles line based on the Moomin Valley children’s books by Finland’s Tove Jansson. FinnishGifts.com features the Iittala Hackman cookware line, such as the Neo casserole, which is almost too striking to tuck away in a cabinet ($100 to $135). Unica Home specializes in Iittala’s glass home accents, such as the stunning four-piece flower bowl set designed by Alvar Aalto ($1,950) or the jewel-toned glass jars by Pentagon Design ($50, $60 or $65). AllModern.com’s selection includes the cheery striped Origo dinnerware collection, along with flatware and kitchen utensils. For sheer beauty, the bird figurines are at the top of the pecking order, particularly the gorgeous cloud tern egg from Bloomingdale’s ($235).