Forum Medicum
Learning, life and research
At Forum Medicum, Lund University’s Faculty of Medicine has gathered its education and research in medicine, health and care into one shared space. Situated right next to the university hospital, this is the first time Lund University has a unified home for its health sciences and biomedical programs.
Through a combination of new construction and careful renovation, 21,000 square meters have been filled with state-of-the-art classrooms, offices, study zones and social areas. It’s a place for 170 research groups, 1,600 employees and 2,000 students – a dynamic environment where knowledge and ideas are exchanged every day.
Spaces for different minds
The power of choice makes a difference.
“The students were clear – they wanted plenty of varied places to study. And that’s what they got. There are large tables for groups, quiet nooks for solo work, study areas in the lively foyer, and secluded corners to retreat to. It’s a great feeling to visit and see how the students use the space, both to study and socialize,” says Elin Alm, Lead Interior Architect.
An interior that lasts – for the eye, the body and the future
Forum Medicum is home to a broad mix of rooms and functions – from high-tech ALC classrooms (Active Learning Classrooms) to method rooms where students practice in realistic hospital environments. To connect it all, we developed a cohesive and sustainable interior concept that unites materials and colors throughout the building. The continuity in furniture and finishes makes it easier to adapt spaces over time – and extends the life of the furniture.
“The style is consistent across the building. We didn’t want it to be a big deal if a chair ended up in the wrong room at the end of the day. With so many students on the move, it will happen. So instead, we made sure that the materials and colors go well together – without everything looking the same,” Elin explains.
The scale of the project is worth mentioning: 8,700 pieces of furniture. Thanks to digital tools, we were able to organize procurement, layouts and adjustments along the way – a key factor in keeping things on track.
Custom interiors for a specialized environment
When research and education share the same spaces, smart solutions are essential. At Forum Medicum, we worked with pine plywood – a material that recurs throughout the building, creating warmth and a sense of unity. Linoleum tabletops and custom-designed AV stands for screens and whiteboards are built into the architecture, solving technical challenges while adding character.
Art as part of the architecture
Here, art is integrated into the environment. Three monumental wall pieces by artist Ylva Snöfrid stretch through the building, created in collaboration with Public Art Agency Sweden. The color palette, materials and furniture were all selected to highlight both the art and the architecture. Together, they form an environment that feels considered, vibrant and inspiring.
Forum Medicum is certified at the highest level of Sweden’s Miljöbyggnad sustainability standard – Gold. It’s one of Lund University’s largest joint investments with Akademiska Hus. A project that brings students and researchers together, and sets a new standard for flexible, sustainable learning environments.
