Verdict: Beautiful & sustainable

In the spring of 2020, construction commenced on the new courthouse in Malmö, Sweden. The project has been shaped by principles akin to those upheld by the court: durability, safety, and security. The carefully chosen bricks for the building’s striking façade reflect these values at first sight.

Three authorities – one building

The court building is centrally located in Nyhamnen, one of Malmö’s key development areas, and stands as one of the largest legal workplaces in Northern Europe.

Designed by Henning Larsen Architects, it spans 24,000 square meters, all leased by the Court Administration. The facility accommodates the Malmö District Court, the Administrative Court, and the Rent and Lease Board, allowing these three authorities to collaborate under one roof.

Smooth transition

The house body is divided into four levels, with five towers featuring sloping roofs rising from a shared foundation. This striking architectural element serves as a beacon in Malmö’s skyline, imparting a distinct new character to the city.

The lower part of the structure beautifully integrates traditional façade bricks with modern glass façades, a deliberate design choice that harmonises the old and new sections of Malmö. The Malmö court building was awarded ‘Façade of the Year 2023’ in the ‘New Construction’ category, recognised for its impressive contribution to the urban landscape, characterised by innovation, forward-thinking, and dynamism.

A classic choice

For the Malmö court, the EW0466 Koppar façade brick was selected. This brick draws its inspiration from the rich history and character of the Swedish cities’ timeless architecture, particularly the older buildings that feature classic red façades.

Over time, these bricks have been weathered and transformed, their surfaces slightly darkening through the years. The result is a red brick with a beaten, textured surface, subtly softened and enhanced by a blackened patina. The new court, set to accommodate approximately 500 employees, promises a unified workspace where safety, aesthetics, and sustainability converge harmoniously.