World of Volvo

An architectural masterpiece that combines tradition and the future

In Gothenburg, Sweden's vibrant port city and home to Volvo since 1927, the World of Volvo rises as a new landmark. This architectural masterpiece, designed by Henning Larsen Architects, combines tradition with a visionary focus on the future and embodies the Swedish concept of ‘Allemansrätten’ – the right to freely experience and respect nature.

The imposing roof rests on three mathematically arranged pillars and is reminiscent of a dense canopy of leaves. The curved architecture and the use of natural materials create a unique atmosphere that combines Swedish identity and state-of-the-art architecture. Inside, visitors can expect light-flooded rooms for up to 1,100 people, ideal for conferences, exhibitions and cultural events.

D+H was involved in the project with regard to the central aspect of smoke and heat exhaust ventilation. Since the first contact with the Scandinavian façade construction company Lindner Scandinavia, the window sizes and thus the technical requirements have changed several times. It was only later in the project, that a trapezoidal adjustment of the windows came into play and required a completely new development of the solution – no problem for D+H Sverige.

The World of Volvo now shines with the latest SHEV technology: the 15 scissor windows are each equipped with two CDC drives in 230V and 24V designs and are controlled centrally via a CPS-M control unit. Due to the varying inclination of the upper window areas of 7° to 8°, the drives had to be programmed to match the respective window at different running speeds in order to open and close the windows synchronously.

The cable guidance was also cleverly solved: the cables run unobtrusively over the exterior windows along the roof beams and are thus elegantly routed to the central CPS-M control panel. Thanks to the special black RAL colour for drives, brackets and cables, the technology blends in seamlessly and remains almost invisible.

The World of Volvo is more than just an architectural jewl – it illustrates how natural building materials can be integrated harmoniously. With its well-thought-out smoke ventilation solution, the World of Volvo not only sets architectural and sustainable standards, but also offers the highest safety standards. D+H Sverige received the Gold Atmosphere Award 2024 for this achievement.