In a landscape of industrial infrastructure, the 70-meter-high energy tank already functions as a signpost, visible from afar and marking Malmö’s entrance by rail. In this sparse setting, it stands out as a monument. To be accepted and even ‘adopted’ by its context, it must also feel familiar—drawing attention for the right reasons. The aim is not to highlight a purely technical achievement, but to propose an innovative, responsible intervention attuned to today’s economic and ecological challenges.
We therefore focus on an envelope concept with a singular, controlled form. Instead of expressing the two stacked pools, a continuous, finely shaped material wraps the entire structure. We chose a thermal reflective aluminum membrane with integrated insulation for its economy and high performance. Applied at scale, it becomes a test of both technical and aesthetic qualities. Laid horizontally, the curved modules suggest stacked segments. Their assembly—via rivets and profiles—creates material tension, seen in folds and creases. The result is a façade of supple, tangent cushions.
This careful treatment gives the industrial material a new plastic expressiveness. Under light, the surface vibrates—both protective and seemingly fragile. The tank resembles a shimmering marquee: elegant, less imposing. A new wing complements the existing annex, housing offices and rest areas. Across both structures, the goal remains: to strike the right balance between function, scale, and form—creating a landmark that is both visible and relevant.