Stockholm’s new centre, Forskaren Hub, acts as an innovation hub for the life sciences with its 24 000 square metres and seven floors of co-working areas, offices, and flexible spaces in the heart of the emerging Hagastaden district – a masterplanned knowledge district. Developed by Vectura Fastigheter AB, its interior spaces are characterised by its abundant plants, natural materials, daylight, and a highly-biophilic approach.
The centre required sustainable materials in its construction as well as attention on occupant well-being, further necessitated to secure its multiple green building certifications. A range of Rockfon acoustic solutions deliver optimal noise control while meeting the material and sustainability requirements.
Designed for People to Meet and See Each Other
3XN Architects – the celebrated Danish firm behind projects including Brasserie Astoria and the KPMG offices in Frederiksberg, Denmark – designed Forskaren with an expansive inner atrium, creating a vibrant environment where researchers, entrepreneurs, and the public can come across one another and easily interact. With its concentric rings and recessed balconies, the building's circular form creates a dynamic space that encourages connection with visibility from all seven floors. A sculptural spiral staircase in the atrium acts as a major focal point and primary circulation space.
Across the interiors, 3XN Architects opted for "subtle differences" in materials, colours, and furniture for character and playfulness. Wooden panelling and generous greenery greatly contribute to a natural palette.
"Forskaren is designed to encourage collaboration and innovation. The open, flexible workspaces and common areas promote interaction and the exchange of ideas, making it a hub for creativity and progress. Good acoustics play a crucial role in these spaces, ensuring clear communication and reducing distractions", explains Christian Wamberg Rasmussen, Project Manager at 3XN Architects.
Acoustic Solutions for Noise Control and Natural Lighting
The premium white ceiling tiles Rockfon Blanka were installed to improve open laboratory, office, and meeting room acoustics to ensure calm atmospheres with high speech comfort, clarity, and privacy. With over 87 percent light reflection over 99 percent light diffusion, Rockfon Blanka maximises the lighting available to a space.
"The well-being of the building's occupants was a primary focus in our design process. Natural lighting and high-quality acoustics play a crucial role in creating healthy, comfortable environments that foster productivity and satisfaction. Rockfon Blanka's exceptional light reflection was a key factor in our decision-making", notes Christian Wamberg Rasmussen.
In the distinctive circular atrium, the monolithic acoustic solution Rockfon Mono Acoustic was installed to optimise the circulation acoustics with a seamless appearance that enhances both the auditory and visual experience across the common areas. Like Rockfon Blanka, Rockfon Mono Acoustic reflects 87 percent of natural lighting and further bathes the space with brightness.
The majority of the products selected for the Forskaren Science Hub needed to achieve requirements for the Swedish Building Material Assessment, and all selected Rockfon acoustic solutions meet the requirements. The centre was additionally certified with both LEED Platinum and WELL Platinum, to which Rockfon acoustic solutions contributed.
Since its completion, the Forskaren Science Hub has received wide acclaim and has won a range of awards, including Best Office at the World Architecture Festival 2024. It is set to become a key scene for Swedish healthcare, academia, research, and business and a landmark for the new Hagastaden science district.
