Imagine a university campus nestled in a Swedish forest, where learning isn't just about lectures, but about immersing yourself in nature. That's the vision behind the stunning new hub at the Stockholm School of Economics' Kursgården Kämpasten campus. But here's where it gets interesting: this isn't your typical academic building. Designed by the collaborative genius of Johan Sundberg Arkitektur and Tengbom, it's a masterpiece of timber and glass, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor learning.
Located on a secluded slope near Lake Mälaren, just outside Sigtuna, this campus is a haven for executive education programs. After a fire destroyed the former catering building in 2018, the challenge was clear: create a new heart for the campus that wasn't just functional, but transformative.
The result? A two-story building that feels like an extension of the forest itself. Bright, open interiors are framed by exposed pine and spruce timber, paired with concrete for a modern yet organic aesthetic. Full-height glazing wraps around the structure, inviting the surrounding woodland inside.
'Our goal wasn't just to replace what was lost,' explains Johan Sundberg, founder of Johan Sundberg Arkitektur. 'We wanted to enhance the sensory experience of Kämpasten. Through thoughtful spatial design, material choices, and natural light, we aimed to deepen the connection between course participants and this incredible place.'
And this is the part most people miss: the collaboration between the two studios was anything but traditional. Instead of the usual 'design architect' and 'production architect' handoff, they embraced a 'shared custody' approach, ensuring a seamless and cohesive vision from start to finish.
The building itself is a study in contrasts. Partially sunk into the slope, it features a lower level with conference, meeting, and office spaces, while the upper level houses dining areas with breathtaking views of the forest and lake. A clever 'angular shift' in the building's design creates a triangular central space, home to a bar, buffet, and a striking concrete stairwell illuminated by skylights.
Here’s where it gets controversial: while the upper level celebrates openness with exposed timber frames and outward views, the lower level takes a more enclosed approach, with smooth wood ceilings and intimate ground contact. Is this duality a harmonious blend, or does it risk creating a disconnect between the two spaces? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
Sundberg’s design philosophy shines through in the building’s lantern-like roof ridge, which channels daylight deep into the structure via a central staircase. 'It’s about creating a clear duality,' he notes. 'The upper level is all about openness and connection to nature, while the lower level offers a sense of enclosure and intimacy.'
Founded in 2006, Johan Sundberg Arkitektur is known for projects like a stilted holiday home clad in Siberian larch. Tengbom, one of Sweden’s oldest architectural practices (established in 1906), recently designed its own studio building in Stockholm, ingeniously inserting a demountable fit-out into a renovated 1930s factory.
Photography by Erik Lefvander captures the essence of this remarkable project, showcasing how architecture can not only coexist with nature but elevate it.
What do you think? Does this timber-framed hub achieve its goal of enhancing the sensory experience of learning? Or is it too bold a departure from traditional academic design? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take!
