“A building that evokes emotions” receives prestigious architecture award The jury for this year’s Sheet Metal Prize recognizes a building true to its material, where craftsmanship as well as respect for both its surroundings and function are central.
On Thursday afternoon, March 10, Tengbom received the Sheet Metal Prize 2016 for the District Court in Alingsås, a monolithic zinc extension whose unique character both contrasts with and coexists with the brick courthouse from 1899. The building, designed by Fritz Olausson and Magnus Almung, is based on a plan by architect Börje Falemo. Tengbom’s proposal with playful roof ridges and curved bay windows appealed to the district court.
“Zinc is a fine old classic material that was used extensively as a roofing material during the turn of the last century. We simply brought the metal down to the façade, and it fits perfectly with the granite base, which is a common denominator on both buildings,” say Fritz Olausson and Magnus Almung at Tengbom.
The material is chosen with care, not least for its robust and confidence-inspiring aesthetics. A building that both radiates and reflects respect for the decisions made in the district court was a fundamental view for both architect and client, something that was noted by the jury:
“The SHEET METAL PRIZE 2016 is awarded to a building that evokes emotions. With a clear character, like a small-scale mountain range with independent peaks, it radiates strength and security as well as liveliness. The monolithic volume consistently bears a material with the promise of beautiful and wise aging, and despite the strong contrast to the original building, the execution is based on great respect for the original volume’s architecture and materials. Here, the venerable is allowed to interact with the modern, to meet in a new expression that will bring them ever closer together over time. The creators have been insistent in their choice of material, which is rooted in very good material knowledge. A familiarity that has also enabled richness in detail in the fine print as well as space for great craftsmanship. The residents of Alingsås should confidently follow each annual ring on this solid building.”
“Often you stumble at the finish line when it comes to prizes like these, because the competition is so great. All nominated projects are worthy winners. It’s truly an honor and incredibly exciting to be awarded the Sheet Metal Prize. A good client is the foundation for all successful results,” say Fritz Olausson and Magnus Almung at Tengbom.
The building is craftsmanship throughout, and all sheet metal is mounted with great care and precision. The cladding consists of zinc sheets of varying widths, placed in a determined “random pattern” from base to ridge. By working with four different widths, there’s never a need to cut the metal. Even the doors are clad in zinc and blend into the pattern. The shape is subdued, and the volumes are located where the courtrooms are, with light intake from above. Tengbom has also designed the interior, including custom-designed tables for the court, parties, and witnesses, as well as loose furnishings.
The building was partially put into use in November last year and will be officially inaugurated in September 2016. Currently, renovation of the older parts is underway, as well as an additional smaller zinc extension directly connected to the older building’s large courtroom.
Facts about the District Court in Alingsås:
Architects: Tengbom; Fritz Olausson and Magnus Almung
Program architect: Börje Falemo
Tenant: The District Court in Alingsås
Contractor: Serneke
Property owner: Hemfosa
Roof: Standing seam zinc roofing from Rheinzink
Façade: Panel cladding with zinc sheets from Rheinzink
Sheet metal work and installation: Hisingstads Bleck och Plåtslageri AB
About the Sheet Metal Prize: The Sheet Metal Prize is an honorary award, given out by the PLÅT seminar to encourage and celebrate innovation and sustainable construction, where the properties and expression of metal are utilized in a successful architectural execution. The award is presented once a year in connection with the PLÅT seminar.
