Väsby Nya Gymnasium

Upplands Väsby, Sweden

Photo © Thomas Zaar

When major structural damage was detected prior to the renovation of the Vilunda senior high school in Upplands Väsby, the project suddenly grew to become much more than just a new school. White was entrusted with investigating new-build options, and the brief was extended to cover the planning of the entire Messingen district. The result was closer to being a cultural centre in function, giving the community a completely new heart.

A significant aspect of the project was that pupils and staff were consulted on the design. A survey was carried out, asking about the way the built environment should contribute to the power of attraction. The result was a building designed to be multifunctional at all stages of its planning.

The senior high school adopted the role and form of a cultural hub; a meeting place accommodating teaching, library, cinema, sports music, theatre and catering facilities.

The school's new location in a former industrial estate represents the beginning of the future for Upplands Väsby. This new cultural hub marks the start of the transformation of a suburb into a modern town, which will be achieved using White's detailed plan for the entire Messingen district.