The new cultural center and hotel in Skellefteå will be a public building where thousands of visitors are welcomed. A social meeting place where guests can enjoy different types of cultural activities, where artists can show their skills, where the music sounds amazing and where performances presented in the best possible way. This requires a general and transparent building that creates both identity and openness to the city.
 
The architectural concept is based on a clear and flexible system of stacked rooms that can handle unpredictable changes in the future. The concept is inspired on the rubikscube: some parts have a specific design, but many others can be adapted for different scenarios and activities. They are multi-functional rooms that ‘change color’ depending on usage. This clear geometry gives space to an endless range of combinations, relationships and opportunities.

By stacking the various functions a compact volume is created that fits the site. The building has two lower wings that relate in size and scale to the adjacent buildings. The wings form the transition between the street and the higher volume in proportion, scale and function.
The higher part gives the building its distinctive silhouette and identity. It may be seen from afar and creates relationships with the surrounding landscape. The facade is divided into horizontal bands that give the house an elegant composition.
 
A large passage runs straight through the volume, with in the center the multifunctional guest stage. This space can, especially in winter, serve as an indoor plaza. The passage gives room to large performances, exhibition areas, gatherings, banquets and even parades or sporting events. The passage works also when the guest stage is occupied. The functions in the wings, as the cafe, bar, hotel lobby, art gallery and library can also be accessed directly from the passage.
 
The large, high theater spaces form the heart of the building. In order to limit the height sections overlap each other. The foyers and supporting functions, such as workshops, staff rooms, dressing rooms and storage room lay around them.

The hotel rooms are placed like a crown on the top with splendid views over the city and landscape.