2020-09-01
Argus, Falkenberg's new knowledge and culture center is completed
In a strategic location between Stortorget and the new city park, FOJAB has designed Argus, Falkenberg's new knowledge and cultural center. Argus will be a symbolic building and a new public meeting place in the city that creates conditions for creativity and curiosity. Great emphasis has been placed on creating a sustainable and architecturally strong character that is welcoming and accessible.
In 2015, FOJAB won the announced competition for a new knowledge and cultural center and has since worked on the program, system and construction document in close cooperation with the municipality's activities. Argus will be co-utilized by upper secondary school, library, cultural school and youth activities and will be a vibrant meeting place.
- Argus has a strong character and a clear profile that utilizes the qualities of the existing buildings and adds a new and inspiring dimension to the city. It is a symbolic building that contributes to the city's diversity and social sustainability," says Kjell Adamsson, responsible architect at FOJAB.
Argus' welcoming main entrance facing Stortorget contains the children's library's shop window, a café with outdoor seating and a stage. Inside the entrance doors is a two-level foyer with a reception and information center, exhibition areas, an auditorium and small ensemble rooms that can be used for lectures and conferences. Directly inside the foyer, the library extends over two floors around a large open courtyard. The library also has a large glass section that becomes a painting of the changing seasons. Together with Folkets Hus and Stadsteatern, Argus forms a strong cultural cluster that connects the existing city center with the city to the north.
- Argus is the secondary school's common meeting place and cohesive hub on the campus with a number of existing school buildings. We have created a vibrant building with space for creativity, curiosity and discovery. The buildings are designed in such a way that there are good conditions for collaboration. Building community properties is an extensive investment, but through collaboration it becomes profitable," says Charlotte Kristensson, responsible architect for knowledge environments at FOJAB.
- We at the municipality are proud of Argus, which is a building that stands out. The services are very satisfied and happy in the new beautiful premises. We receive many comments from visitors who express that they really like their new library," says Andy Femling, Acting Head of Construction and Projects at the Culture, Leisure and Technology Administration. Head of Construction and Projects at the Culture, Leisure and Technology Administration in Falkenberg Municipality.
FOJAB has designed both the building and the outdoor environment around the new knowledge and culture center. The outdoor environment is inspired by the varied and dramatic landscape around Falkenberg and creates a strong character and a new and inviting element in the cityscape, while reinforcing the building.