Enköpings Municipal Hall - large public timber structures

In the heart of Enköping, Sweden, a symbol of architectural innovation is taking shape: the new municipal hall, which, by blending timber, concrete, and steel, represents an intriguing case study on the use of hybrid structures in large public buildings. The forward-looking design, focused on both people and the environment, confirms the pioneering role of Northern Europe in adopting sustainable construction solutions. 

Large Public Structures: hybrid solutions for modern needs 

In recent years, the use of hybrid structures combining materials like timber, concrete, and steel in large public buildings has become increasingly widespread, particularly in Northern European countries, but also beyond. The growing environmental awareness and the need to reduce the carbon footprint of constructions have driven architects and engineers to explore new frontiers in sustainable design. 

The Enköpings Municipal Hall is a prime example of this trend. The project is based on a hybrid structure that combines the strengths of timber, concrete, and steel, aiming to create a structurally impeccable building that also exudes a strong sense of warmth and welcome. Covering an area of 5,300 square meters, the new municipal hall will host around 450 employees, offering a modern and functional work environment. 

Northern Europe leads the way: the Features of Enköping's Municipal Building 

The project for the new municipal hall in Enköping, designed by C.F. Møller Architects, combines aesthetics and functionality in a design that reflects Sweden's commitment to green innovation. A crucial aspect of the project is the load-bearing elements, which are primarily made of concrete and steel, provided by Heidelberg Materials Precast Contiga, one of the largest Swedish producer of prefabricated frames. This company specializes in the production of both steel frames and concrete elements, offering cost-effective overall solutions, great flexibility, a high level of knowledge, fast deliveries, and flexible production coordination. 

Heidelberg Materials Precast Contiga built the structure using concrete joists, perforated deck elements. Working for Skanska, the contractor for this project, they have ensured that the hybrid structure is both robust and efficient. 

At the same time, Setra, one of Sweden's leading producers of construction timber, played a key role in the project by supplying construction-grade CLT and Glulam with elements pre-assembled directly in the factory. This is the largest pre-assembly project of components that Setra has ever undertaken, highlighting the importance and complexity of this initiative.

Some systems and fastening, as well as certain waterproofing elements, were applied to the CLT in the factory, significantly reducing on-site assembly time and ensuring the overall high quality of the structure. 

This approach optimised the entire construction process, showcasing the efficiency and innovation that Setra brings to every project, supported by Rothoblaas solutions that meet the highest standards of sustainability and quality. Another distinctive feature of the building is its hybrid structure, which integrates timber elements with concrete and steel components provided by Heidelberg Materials Precast Contiga. This approach not only provides the building with great strength but also enhances the natural beauty of the wood, creating a warm and visually pleasing interior environment. 

The large common and open spaces of the project  

Another strength of the new Enköping municipal hall is the focus on large common spaces. The architects at C.F. Møller designed a building that is not just a workplace but also a meeting point for the community. The large atriums and open areas are designed to promote interaction and collaboration, both among employees and with citizens.  

These spaces are characterized by a clever use of natural light, which filters through large windows, creating a bright and serene atmosphere. Wood helps to create a warm and inviting environment, in line with the Nordic tradition of functional and aesthetic design.  

Large floors for large spaces: the solution is TC FUSION 

When it comes to creating large floors, such as those required for the new Enköping municipal hall, it is essential to use construction solutions that ensure strength, durability, and ease of assembly. The answer to these needs is TC FUSION, an innovative connection system developed by Rothoblaas, which found perfect application in this project. 

TC FUSION stands out for its ability to effectively connect timber to concrete, ensuring optimal load transmission and greater structural stability. This system helps to reduce installation times and improve assembly precision, thanks to pre-assembled components that integrate seamlessly with other construction technologies. 

The RTR screws by Rothoblaas, the structural reinforcement bar with wood thread, was as well used in the project. This screw offers optimal load transmission and greater structural stability, enhancing the hybrid structure's overall performance. 

Focus on sustainability 

The new Enköping municipal hall is not only an example of architectural excellence but also a model of certified sustainability. The use of cross-laminated timber (CLT) by Setra, combined with the TC FUSION system and RTR screws, significantly reduces the environmental impact of the building. Wood is a zero-carbon emission material that helps mitigate the effects of climate change by storing CO2 during its life cycle. 

Moreover, the building aims to achieve high-level environmental certifications, such as LEED or BREEAM, which attest to the attention paid to key aspects such as energy efficiency, responsible resource use, and waste reduction. The entire design was oriented toward minimal environmental impact, with solutions that promote energy savings and the use of renewable energy sources. 

Ensuring durability and airtightness: Rothoblaas tapes and screws 

Durability and airtightness are crucial aspects of a building of this scale and expectations. Rothoblaas provided a range of cutting-edge products to ensure that the new Enköping municipal hall is not only robust but also perfectly insulated. Among these are sealing tapes like SPEEDY BAND, designed to prevent infiltrations that could compromise some of the building's most critical points, and timber screws with certified resistance such as HBS, VGS, VGZ, and the RTR screw for timber-to-concrete connections. 

Where hybrid structures lead the way for the future, Rothoblaas is there 

The Enköping municipal hall project demonstrates how a combination of materials, including timber, concrete, and steel, can be the foundation for large public structures. Thanks to solutions geared towards hybridization, such as the TC FUSION system and the RTR screw from Rothoblaas, it is possible to create buildings that combine aesthetics, functionality, and certified sustainability. 

Involved companies: CLT/Gluelam: Setra Trävaror AB 

Builder: Heidelberg Materials 

Designer: Swetch AB - C.F. Møller 

main contractor: Skanska 

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