Wood and curves shape Volvo's new home
Gothenburg’s new experience centre, World of Volvo, opened its doors in April. The 22,000-square-metre building, designed by the international architectural firm Henning Larsen, brings technological innovations, Volvo iconic vehicles, cultural events and culinary experiences under one roof. Its architecture symbolises a world without boundaries, where nature is at the core.
From the outset, the vision for World of Volvo has very much focused on sustainability and innovation. Henning Larsen, the architectural firm chosen as the partner for the project, has applied its expertise in knowledge-based and innovative design to deliver this new landmark for the city of Gothenburg. Martin Stenberg Ringnér, Associate Design Director at Henning Larsen, explains that the objective was to create an integrated space for meetings and experiences through organic design.
“Our aspiration was to create a structure that would not only resonate with the essence of Volvo, but would also respect our surroundings and society’s values,” says Martin Stenberg Ringnér.
World of Volvo has challenged traditional architectural conventions by incorporating wood as a primary building material, with significant emphasis on environmental sustainability. The wooden construction is both the most forward-looking and traditional aspect of the project.
“There is a very long tradition of using wood as a building material in Sweden. We took a more modern approach in this project, however, with curved, organic forms that have produced an advanced design. This has been challenging from a technical standpoint and the project has involved input from leading engineers and specialist expertise from around the world,” says Martin Stenberg Ringnér.
Understanding Volvo’s history and how the brand has evolved as part of Swedish life has been a key element of the design process. The Swedish Right of Public Access, “allemansrätten”, has provided the framework for the architecture of World of Volvo, with Swedish culture and the freedom to access natural spaces serving as a major source of inspiration.
“The Swedish Right of Public Access, “allemansrätten”, embodies important values that we wanted to instill into World of Volvo, like the equal value of all people, safety, and care and consideration for others and for our natural surroundings,” says Magnus Wrahme, CEO of World of Volvo.
This project represents not only a new era for Volvo’s presence in Gothenburg, but also a milestone achievement in Swedish design and architecture.
“We are happy to welcome the general public to World of Volvo. A building is nothing without people and activities. We want World of Volvo to be a central location for meetings and experiences, for local residents and international visitors alike,” says Magnus Wrahme in closing.