Nobel Center

The proposed round building is a concept that is distinctly different from the one presented in the first stage of the competition. A round building is naturally directionless and, due to its divergent shape, difficult to relate to nearby structures. The major advantage of this proposal is instead the greatly diminished footprint and the management of the site that this allows.
It would be possible to create a large, generous outdoor area for visitors. The design of this area is one of the finest qualities in the proposal, but it partially falls outside the scope of the project. The rounded shape may also lead to a lack of orientation and protected spaces next to the building. This is partly offset by elements that curve inward and roofs that project outward.

The jury was hesitant about the identity and design of the building, which according to the architect’s description is to be perceived as a general cultural centre. Although the building will house broad, open activities for the general public, the selected shape functions less satisfactorily for a Nobel Center, which will also be a symbol of the Nobel Prize and related activities. A building with glass façades naturally provides many opportunities to look inside, but sometimes at the expense of clear identity. The glass surfaces may also cause reflections, making the façade less transparent than intended.

Because of the consistently requested rectangular room shapes, many intermediate spaces arise that may be difficult to utilise. Connecting paths are forced out towards the periphery, making it difficult to create coherent, clear spaces and large areas. Many rooms that would benefit from contact with direct daylight will only receive indirect light, which is less than satisfactory from both an energy and aesthetic standpoint. The small footprint has also resulted in large underground areas without access to daylight.

The entrance level may feel exciting and active, with its large atrium for vertical communication. The escalators would have a powerful sculptural shape that may be appealing. As a consequence, however, there is no room for necessary functions where there is the greatest need for visibility, light and open space. The generosity found in the entrance level of the first proposal is lost because of the large atrium, and the jury is not convinced that this is the best way to fulfil the gathering function that is intended.

The large curved glass elements that make up the façade of the building are both a technical challenge and relatively costly.