Architecture
As you enter the building, you encounter beautiful, light, solid, timeless and environmentally sustainable materials. The property has large windows, and the ceiling height in the offices is 2.7 metres, which creates a wonderful sense of space and light.
The building comprises three interlinked structures with separate entrances. Between the buildings there are three glass atriums, and the roof has a fantastic south-facing terrace with views across Arenastaden’s growing skyline. The building has seven office floors with parking in the basement.
“We were keen to create a unique ICA building, with a strong identity and brand presence. They have a clear vision centred around ‘the learning company’ and knowledge sharing between people. We see it as an essential forum that provides a home and place of work for ICA, a place that can be adapted in an ever-changing world. A central hub for meeting partners, retailers and suppliers in a transparent and inspiring way. We also hope the building will have an intuitive and logical feel. It should provide optimum support for each employee in their work.”
Thomas Eriksson – Architect, TEA
The office plan is flexible and has been designed to suit ICA’s requirements. The materials used are light, natural Nordic materials and ICA has since added their own details. In addition to spaces for cars, the parking area in the basement has 120 bicycle spaces with a changing room and showers, as well as charging points for electric cars and places to charge electric bikes.
Interior design offers calm and muted feel
The interior design architects worked with ICA’s marketing department to come up with a varied palette, in a calmer and more muted interpretation of the colours that featured in the company’s former headquarters. There is a centrally positioned space that sets the tone for the whole building. The palette as a whole is appealing and has an ICA-feel, without being too red or corporate.
“The colours also help you navigate your way around the building. Each floor has its own tone and the meeting rooms feature colours based on their aspect. It helps employees find their way around the new building. For example, they can agree to hold a meeting in the orange section on the fifth floor.”
Lotten Wahledov – interior design architect, TEA
Working areas with desks have a neutral base, with white walls and floors in two shades of grey to create a calm atmosphere with a look that lasts. The toilets also have a neutral design, with white tiled walls and grey, hexagon shaped tiling on the floor. The idea behind the basic interior design of the building is to provide a warm and pleasant atmosphere, using simple, eco-friendly materials. Fun elements aim to encourage creativity, collaboration, engagement and a positive work environment. Environmental considerations have been top of the agenda when choosing materials.
