Two iconic Estonian design brands (ÖÖD and Estelon) joined forces in New York for the Arvo Pärt 90th Birthday Gala, contributing the ÖÖD Mirror Sauna and Estelon YB Mk II loudspeakers to an Arvo Pärt Centre Endowment charity auction honoring the composer’s legacy.
The 90th birthday of the world-renowned composer Arvo Pärt was celebrated at Carnegie Hall on 23 October 2025 with a concert featuring the Estonian Festival Orchestra under Paavo Järvi, joined by Midori, Hans Christian Aavik, Nico Muhly, and the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir.
Before the concert, a Sotheby’s-led charity auction and gala dinner raised funds for the Arvo Pärt Centre Endowment, showcasing two exceptional Estonian design contributions that reflected the nation’s craftsmanship, minimalism, and spirituality amongst other auction lots.
Design and Music in Harmony
Estelon presented a one-of-a-kind pair of YB Mk II “Arvo Pärt Centre Edition” Loudspeakers, serial number 1/1, bearing Arvo Pärt’s signature. Originally donated to the Arvo Pärt Centre, the loudspeakers had been exhibited in its serene listening space in Laulasmaa, where visitors — including Maestro Pärt himself — experienced their exceptional sound.
“The collaboration with the Arvo Pärt Centre Endowment represents everything Estelon stands for: the pursuit of purity, emotion, and timeless design,” said Alfred Vassilkov, Co-Owner and Chief Designer of Estelon. “It has been an honour to see our YB Mk II model bring life to the Centre’s musical and spiritual atmosphere.”
ÖÖD contributed the Mirror Sauna, a freestanding architectural design piece handcrafted in Estonia. With its mirrored façade and minimalist form, the sauna integrates seamlessly into its natural surroundings, embodying the balance between modern design, wellbeing, and nature.
“Arvo Pärt’s music reflects the same quiet depth and clarity that inspire our work at ÖÖD,” said Andreas Tiik, CEO and Co-Founder of ÖÖD. “We wanted to offer something that embodies the Estonian sense of peace, simplicity, and connection to nature — values that resonate deeply with his compositions. It was a privilege to contribute this sauna to a cause that celebrates his legacy and supports the Foundation’s mission.”
Ensuring Arvo Pärt’s Lasting Legacy
The proceeds from the auction will go towards the Arvo Pärt Centre Endowment, helping to secure the long-term financial sustainability of the Centre and its work to preserve and share Arvo Pärt’s musical and intellectual heritage with audiences around the world. “I am proud to have found in ÖÖD and Estelon partners who share our values and feel a deep resonance with Arvo Pärt’s music,” said Michael Pärt, Managing Director of the Arvo Pärt Centre Endowment. “I am deeply grateful that our first charity auction, conducted by Sotheby’s, was received with such warmth and enthusiasm, bringing together both long-time as well as new supporters. Their generosity strengthens our mission, and we value it profoundly.”
A Shared Tribute to Estonian Creativity
Together, ÖÖD and Estelon represented the essence of Estonian design at one of the world’s most prestigious cultural institutions. Their contributions reflected a shared ethos — where architecture, technology, and sound meet to evoke harmony and contemplation. The event not only celebrated Arvo Pärt’s extraordinary career but also highlighted Estonia’s growing influence in global design and culture. From Tallinn to New York, both brands demonstrated how small nations with strong creative roots can shape international conversations in art, design, and music.
Auction Highlights
Organizer: Arvo Pärt Centre Endowment
Auctioneer: Sotheby’s Date: October 23, 2025
Venue: Carnegie Hall, Rohatyn Room
Featured Items:
– Estelon YB Mk II “Arvo Pärt Centre Edition” – Serial No. 1/1
– ÖÖD Mirror Sauna Beneficiaries: proceeds are directed to the Arvo Pärt Centre Endowment in support of the Centre’s long-term sustainability.
Auction photos: link
About Estelon
Founded in Estonia, Estelon is renowned for its sculptural loudspeakers that merge art, technology, and acoustic precision. Each piece is designed by Alfred Vassilkov and handcrafted in Tallinn, uniting advanced engineering with elegant form for an unparalleled listening experience.
Website: www.estelon.com
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Photos: Arvo Pärt’s son & Arvo Pärt Centre Endowment CEO Michael Pärt and Estelon founder Alfred Vassilkov – link
About ÖÖD
ÖÖD creates prefabricated mirrored modular houses and saunas that unite contemporary design with Nordic tradition. Each structure reflects its surroundings both literally and spiritually, offering calm, connection, and comfort. ÖÖD’s designs are now found in more than 25 countries worldwide.
Website: www.oodhouse.com
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Photos: ÖÖD Mini Sauna; Arvo Pärt’s son & Arvo Pärt Centre Endowment CEO Michael Pärt and ÖÖD CEO Andreas Tiik – link
About Arvo Pärt Centre Endowment
The Arvo Pärt Centre Endowment was established in 2021 to secure the long-term sustainability of the Arvo Pärt Centre through philanthropic contributions. It helps to preserve Arvo Pärt’s intellectual legacy, sustain the Centre’s broader cultural and educational activities, and ensure continued public access to the composer’s work.
Website: http://www.apc-endowment.com/
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