World of Volvo lights up Gothenburg – go behind the scenes in planning

Traditional, but at the same time innovative – and with natural materials as common denominators. World of Volvo was designed by the internationally renowned architectural firm, Henning Larsen and inspiration for the design was taken from the Swedish concept Allemansrätten (The right of public access to nature). The building stands on a solid concrete foundation, with the supporting structure comprised of glulam beams and cross-laminated timber. The glass façade acts as a transparent wall to the world outside, allowing natural sunlight in and to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The design of World of Volvo contributes to a vibrant meeting place that fosters interaction between people and ideas. In a building that interweaves artistic creativity and technological innovation, light plays an important role in enabling meetings between people – where creativity is promoted and new ideas are take form.

“We have worked on large projects before, and World of Volvo is something completely unique,” says Mikael Johansson from Fagerhult, who served as the technical sales representative for the project. With responsibility for a large part of the general lighting both indoors and outdoors, it was up to Fagerhult to take on this unique lighting project. The mission of World of Volvo presented several technical and aesthetic challenges, as light has not only had to meet functional requirements, but also needed to be harmonised with the building’s unique architecture.

“We really had to think hard in this project,” says Johansson. “The huge window sections provide a lot of natural light, but we have different seasons in Sweden with varying amounts of sunlight. We have therefore adapted the lighting so that it emphasises and highlights the building in the dark, but also interacts well with the natural light that seeps through the glass sections.”

Create, test and adapt for a constantly changing building

World of Volvo was designed as a constantly changing building, and an early goal during the planning stage was to create a space where people could socialise, enjoy themselves, develop and be entertained. Since the opening day, visitors are able to enjoy temporary and permanent exhibitions, cultural events, lectures, conferences, and dining, which requires different types of lighting adapted for each individual space and purpose.

“We have created, tested and tried out a lot of lighting at World of Volvo, since the building’s round shapes and varying ceiling heights have demanded a high degree of customisation,” explains Hampus Simmons from Simmons Ljusstudio, Head Lighting Designer in the World of Volvo project. “Each room and surface has been equipped with unique lighting solutions in a flexible system. It was important for us that the lighting could be adaptable and re-orientable over time – for example, when the exhibition changes or when new parts are added.”

Wood is a favourable material to work with when it comes to lighting. The colour temperature has been adapted to ensure that the wood does not look too yellow, but otherwise the natural material and the lighting have been seamlessly harmonised. The different heights, surfaces and lighting uses – combined with the unique architecture and its visible construction – proved to be a major challenge.

It required well thought-out solutions since the focus was to be on the actual light provided and its emphasis on the building – and not the luminaires. At World of Volvo, there are no ceilings that can hide the work behind the lighting. In many buildings it is possible to conceal brackets, cables and cords in the ceiling – but that was not an option here. For this reason, it has been very advantageous that our production facility is located in Habo, as it has enabled us to quickly develop custom brackets and luminaires, including specific lengths and light colours. “Having our production and product development in such close proximity has been a huge advantage throughout the World of Volvo project”, explains Mikael Johansson.

The lighting enhances the unique architecture of the building

According to Pontus Mazetti from Vinnergi, who is responsible for the electrical design at World of Volvo, the project has involved collaboration and good cooperation between the client, the architect, the construction contractor and the supplier. “Since the start of the project, we have all had ambitious visions for World of Volvo, and the results truly reflect the commitment all parties have shown. Together we have created lighting that enhances the experience of the building, while maintaining its function and aesthetics year after year,” says Pontus.

LEED Gold and WELL certifications were obtained for the project, which involved solutions that reduce energy consumption and promote the well-being of everyone who spends time in the building. Fredrik Jernstedt, Lead Project Manager at Granitor, notes that intelligent, long-term choices and sustainable processes have been common goals for all parties. “With a building that is meant to change, depending on the exhibitions and events being held, it was crucial that World of Volvo’s lighting solutions last over time and can be adapted as needed.

We have created a flexible system where it will be possible to adjust the light settings without having to rebuild the entire installation,” explains Fredrik Jernstedt. What makes World of Volvo particularly impressive is not only the design and shape of the building, but also how it is highlighted by its lighting – especially during the evening. It becomes even clearer that World of Volvo is a visual landmark, visible from the motorway and other parts of the city.

“We have managed to create a lighting solution that is not only functional, but also enhances the building’s unique architecture. It’s really a powerful feeling to drive past World of Volvo in the evening,” says Mikael Johansson, Fagerhult.

The light highlights the building’s organic forms, highlights Volvo’s iconic vehicles, and creates an innovative atmosphere that reflects both Volvo’s and Fagerhult’s values of sustainability, innovation and respect for nature. World of Volvo now stands as a landmark in Gothenburg – and as an example of how architecture, nature and lighting can interact in a way that both impresses and inspires. And Fagerhult continues to light up Sweden’s most iconic places.