EP44: Designing Kristinehallen Concert Hall | Behind-de-scenes

Architect Emmy from Falugruppen Arkitektkontor and timberconstruction expert Emma from Stora Enso reveal the behind-the-scenes challenges of designing the new Kristinehallen Concert Hall in Falun, Sweden.

(Special thanks to Stora Enso for their help in organising the episode)

From the decision to feature exposed timber beams to a design change that saved nearly 10 million Swedish Krona, the process is packed with innovation, cost-saving strategies, and architectural risk-taking.

The duo dive into mass timber architecture, CLT (cross-laminated timber), and sustainable building practices, all while working within the constraints of a heritage site.

Learn how timber and concrete were combined to meet strict acoustic performance standards, accessibility goals, and budget pressures in this bold example of Scandinavian sustainable design.

00:00:00 - Episode Begins

00:01:00 - Introduction to Emmy + Emma

00:02:26 - Kristinehallen Concert Hall project

00:04:23 - The design choice to use timber

00:05:45 - Collaboration with the constructor

00:06:57 - Other materials used in the design

00:07:42 - Benefits of timber

00:09:29 - Acoustics

00:10:53 - StoraEnso's work on the project

00:13:20 - Where do StoraEnso source their materials from?

00:15:03 - What were the main challenges of the project?

00:17:12 - Cost of the project

00:18:07 - Main design features

00:19:42 - Budget changes pre and post pandemic

00:25:18 - Designing a Timber construction with or without a contractor?

00:26:19 - How to get in touch with Emmy and Emma

Learn more about Falugruppen Arkitektkontor, Stora Enso, and the KristinehallenConcert Hall redesign.