Behold this striking structure before you. It is Aula Medica. Aula Medica stands proudly on the Karolinska Institute campus in Solna. This is a place where innovation thrives.
Aula Medica opened in 2013. It quickly became an iconic landmark. In 2014, it was named “Building of the Year” by Byggindustrin magazine.
The Erling-Persson Family Foundation provided funding. This generous donation made the project possible. Wingårdh Arkitektkontor won the competition to design Aula Medica back in 2001. Gert Wingårdh was the lead architect.
Aula Medica’s design is certainly eye-catching. Its curved facade distinguishes it from the surrounding buildings. The facade is covered in triangular glass panels of different colors. This creates a visually stunning effect.
The building’s shape responds to its position and purpose. Its bold architecture makes a statement. Aula Medica stands out. It asserts its presence on the campus.
Inside, Aula Medica houses a large auditorium. This auditorium can seat 1,000 people. Nobel lectures are held here. Scientific symposia and major conferences also take place in the hall. Researchers from around the world gather here.
Aula Medica spans seven floors. It covers 13,700 square meters. The building extends partially over Solnavägen. Its main staircase follows the angle of the slant.
AFRY collaborated on the building’s design. They handled HVAC, sanitation planning and energy calculations. The building’s unique shape posed a challenge. The slanted facade required careful engineering.
The transparent segments on the facade maximize daylight. This was developed in collaboration with lighting experts. The building features offices and a restaurant in addition to the auditorium. This creates varied demands on climate control.
The glulam frame is a key feature of the facade. Approximately 15 kilometers of spruce glulam from Austria were used. The facade is separate from the building. This allows the building to move freely without affecting the facade.
Great attention was given to energy consumption. Electrical systems and indoor climate simulations helped minimize energy use. Aula Medica achieved Green Building certification at the Silver level. This is impressive for a building with so much glass.
Inside, a triangular pattern echoes the facade. The paneled ceiling in the foyer features routed lines. White glazed pine accentuates the building’s Nordic character. The floor is made of smoked and white glazed oak.
Wingårdh describes the interior as inviting, warm, and intimate. He likens the wooden fixtures to shipbuilding. He wanted people to feel welcome and comfortable here.
The Aula Medica stands as a testament to bold design. It is a place of learning and collaboration. This striking building embodies innovation and openness.