White Architects was recently named the winner of the competition for the Forumtorget project in Uppsala, Sweden. The proposal, with its subdued paving, expressive sofa and generous plateau, is powerful, substantive and empathetic. Here, the people of Uppsala have a natural meeting place and an open breathing space within the built-up business district. More images and architects’ description after the break.
Forumtorget is one of Uppsala’s most important central squares. It is directly adjacent to the pedestrianized street of Kungsängsgatan which, together with Smedsgränd, forms a wide passageway to Dragarbrunnsgatan. The new Forumtorget square issues a friendly, playful challenge. A powerful statement, matching the surrounding buildings, inviting and inspiring rest, activity and participation. The square is a respite, a contrast to what the surroundings offer, an urban oasis. It is small, and its framework and its liveliness produce the statement and the power of attraction. The interpretation supports this while also giving the square its identity.
