Forskaren is a new centre for health and life sciences, bringing together spaces for industry, research, academia, and the public in a striking new building. Sited prominently at the heart of Stockholm’s Hagastaden district, an emerging quarter for innovation and entrepreneurship in health and life sciences, the landmark building provides a centre of activity and a knowledge sharing forum for the whole district.

By combining public and private functions the intention is to open a door into life sciences, nurture a wider interest in the subject, and inspire the next generation of scientists. At street level a glazed façade visually connects the interior and exterior and invites visitors inside. Accommodating a deli, restaurant, event spaces, and an exhibition space, the public ground floor constitutes the social heart of the building where people from all backgrounds can gather. The exhibition occupies a unique position at the nexus of industry and the public, providing a tangible link between the two typically separate groups and acting as a showcase for the life sciences in a ‘live’ environment.

Internally, spaces are arranged around an impressive full-height atrium bringing daylight into the building and allowing visitors a glimpse of the activity above, further strengthening the connection between the public and industry. The centrepiece of the atrium is a 12-metre-high light artwork, 'The Veins of Life', by Yoke.

The upper floors contain flexible office spaces where tenants can choose to rent one or more floors, or simply take advantage of the co-working spaces. Recognising that innovation rarely happens in isolation, the workspaces are designed to bring people together, encourage collaboration, and facilitate chance meetings. The central atrium and its distinctive staircase establish strong visual and physical connections between floors to help build a sense of community amongst the occupants. Each floor benefits from a laboratory that is shared by both permanent and co-working tenants, and more informal spaces such as break-out areas, balconies, and a rooftop terrace further reinforce the collaborative atmosphere. Facilities for conferences and seminars also allow Forskaren to host industry events, to bring people together from the whole community.

Plants, natural materials and daylight create an inspiring work environment. The interiors are dominated by natural materials to create a warm expression. Surfaces and panelling on the floors are also clad in wood, while the floor on the ground floor is made of natural stone from the Swedish island of Gotland. The rustic and durable materiality of the building will patinate beautifully over time with wood panelling that can go untreated for 50 years. With these design choices, Forskaren follows the Swedish Byggvarubedömningen’s material recommendations for sustainable construction.

In addition, Forskaren is targeting LEED Platinum, WELL v.1 Gold and Miljöbyggnad Gold certification.