Landmark 20-Story Cultural Center

The Sara Kulturhus in Skellefteå, Sweden, is a landmark project involving the construction of a 20-story cultural center, with a total gross area of 14,000 m². The project, which began in October 2018, is expected to be completed by August 2021, with an estimated construction cost of 600 million Swedish kronor. SSEA Svensk Samverkansentreprenad serves as the general contractor, coordinating numerous key players, including Skanska Sverige, Bravida Sverige, Peab Sverige, and White Arkitekter.

Tallest Wooden Building Globally

The Sara Kulturhus stands out due to its innovative use of timber in high-rise construction. It's set to become one of the tallest wooden buildings globally, demonstrating the potential of cross-laminated timber (CLT) elements in creating sustainable and visually appealing structures. The building will serve multiple purposes, featuring a cultural center on the lower floors and an 'Elite Hotel' with 205 hotel rooms on the upper floors.

100% Renewable Energy Integration

Environmental sustainability is a core focus of the project, evidenced by the collaboration between Skellefteå Kraft and ABB to integrate state-of-the-art, energy-efficient solutions. ABB's electrification technology and ABB AbilityTM EDCS platform will optimize the energy flow within the building, offering insights into energy consumption and promoting a 100 percent renewable energy system. The building's internal energy systems will be integrated with the city's energy solutions through smart algorithms, aiming to reduce energy costs and mitigate energy peaks.

Extensive Wood-Glass Facades

The extensive facade work on the Sara Kulturhus was managed by Lignas AB, a subsidiary of KG Constructions Group. The project involved installing 3,100 m2 of wood-glass facades, 3,000 m2 of aluminum-glass facades, 7,700 m2 of external double-glazed facades, and 4,100 m2 of ventilated Superwood wooden finish facades. Lignas AB worked closely with White Arkitekter to ensure the facades harmoniously integrated the building's structural and aesthetic elements.

Dynamic Cultural Meeting Place

The Sara Kulturhus will have significant societal benefits, serving as a dynamic meeting place for culture, joy, and conferences. Lessees include Museum Anna Nordlanders Vänner and Skellefteå kommun. The building is poised to become a cultural landmark in northern Sweden, setting a new standard for timber construction in high-rise buildings and highlighting the importance of sustainable building practices.