New educational building for Mälardalen University

Our proposal for Mälardalen University in Sweden is a functional, flexible and accessible building. It clarifies the intentions of the university creating a powerful symbol of their status as an important knowledge institution. In a compelling way the building contributes to the marketing of Eskilstuna as a knowledge city - both through a conscious interaction with its historical context and as a social center of knowledge. With its welcoming ground floor and human scale the building works as a distinctive and positive contribution to the history and urban spaces of the city.

The main purpose of our proposal is to ensure a vital and - at the same time - flexible study environment that supports knowledge sharing between students and teachers - between visitors and architecture. We want to create an environment that stimulates dialogue and interaction. The different functions of the buildings are interwoven in a both horizontal and vertical campus-complex that ensures an innovative and accessible study environment.

The facades are inspired by the historic neighborhoods of Eskilstuna that are characterized by a small-scale building work and intimate spaces. The open ground floor is performed in glass that is perforated by entrances and outdoor study areas. This lets the main street pass through the building, visualises knowledge and creates a clear relationship with the surrounding urban space.

The composite volume, the human scale and the spatial dynamics is intended as a gentle adjustment to the existing, listed bathing facility by Paul Hedquist.

Location: Eskilstuna, Sweden
Client: Mälardalen University of Technology
Total area: 18,300 m2