Universeum Gothenburg

Type of building: Science center
Number of floors: 5
Where: Gothenburg
Construction area: 10 700
Completed: 2001
Architect: Wingårdh Arkitektkontor AB, Gothenburg
Constructor: FB Engineering AB
Entrepreneur: Tuve Bygg (general),
Skanska (shaft and foundation),
Moelven Töreboda (glulam)

 

The entrance wing of Universeum is perhaps Sweden’s most spectacular wooden building. It shows, unequivocally, that large structures can be built in wood. The use of the material has a boldly uncompromising uniformity, embodying a desire to explore its utmost limits. The long overhang of the roof trusses and the façade’s combination of glass/plastic and wood has rightly become the signature for the building’s exterior, with the large posts in the entrance hall defining the interior.

 

The building is fresh, bold and exciting rather than beautiful. Its robust character underlines Universeum’s ambition to inspire experimentation and unleash creativity.