Sara Kulturhus, Skellefteå

Sara Kulturhus: A Nordic Landmark in Wood

Sara Kulturhus in Skellefteå is one of Scandinavia’s most ambitious timber buildings - and a masterpiece of contemporary architecture. Rising 80 metres across 20 storeys, it ranks among the three tallest wooden structures in the Nordics.

Inside, the cultural centre is as diverse as it is impressive. It houses six theatre stages, the city library, two art galleries, a conference centre, three restaurants and a hotel with 205 rooms, all crowned by a spectacular view over Skellefteå and the surrounding Norrbotten landscape.

Built on Timber Innovation

The cultural facilities occupy the lower four floors of the building, supported by columns and beams of glulam. Above them, the Wood Hotel spans the remaining 16 floors, constructed as a high-rise tower of prefabricated modules in solid CLT (cross-laminated timber) stacked between two CLT elevator cores. This consistent use of timber for both load-bearing structures and surfaces has reduced construction time while delivering an exceptionally low carbon footprint.

A Dramatic Foyer Experience

At the heart of Sara Kulturhus lies a majestic foyer defined by its striking “culture staircase.” Here, the space is grounded by durable ash industrial parquet supplied by Hørning. Framed by 22-metre-long timber beams and reinforced by steel connections, the interplay between floor and soaring roof structure creates a sense of tension and unity that amplifies the drama of the cultural centre.

Flooring Built for Heavy Use

As in any cultural building, the floors endure heavy daily use. For this reason, robust oiled ash industrial parquet was chosen, a flooring solution known for its strength, ease of maintenance and simple repair process. With regular care, these floors are designed to withstand the intensity of public life while preserving their elegance.

Continuing a Tradition of Timber Architecture

Designed by White Arkitekter and realised in collaboration with local timber suppliers and manufacturers, Sara Kulturhus reflects Skellefteå’s long-standing tradition of wood construction while pointing firmly to the future.

Author and photographer: Bjarne Lund Johansen