The National Archives in Härnösand
A place for democracy and cultural heritage
Set amidst the blue-tinged heights of Höga Kusten, the National Archives in Härnösand draws its identity from the surrounding landscape of pine forests, red granite, and wood. This new landmark is not just a repository of records but a bastion of democracy and a celebration of cultural heritage.
Located in Saltvik, north of Härnösand, the site boasts a commanding view of Älandsfjärden. Approximately 100 employees will work here alongside 258,000 shelf meters of archived material.
“Our vision revolves around timelessness,” says Pontus Eriksson, lead architect at Tengbom. “Sustainability and openness are core values in this project. We designed a timeless structure linking the archival section with an office building through an atrium and a welcoming visitor area.”
A historical site modeled in 3D
The exterior design combines classical aesthetics with a modern touch. The archive section, constructed of concrete, ensures compliance with fire and climate control requirements and allows for future expansion.
“This is a substantial building set in a sloping natural landscape,” explains landscape architect Jenny Söderling. “We used 3D modeling extensively to ensure it integrates harmoniously and sustainably with its surroundings.”
Höga kusten’s red granite
The concrete incorporates Ångermanland’s red native stone, Nordingrå granite. Its red hue is visible from a distance, guiding visitors to the right place. The surrounding landscape is reflected in the interplay between the building and nature, both in the facades and the repetitive patterns on the ground.
The interplay between the building and the landscape is further emphasized in the facade design and the patterned paving.
“Incorporating local stones into the paving brings Höga Kusten’s rugged cliffs to life,” adds Jenny. “Irregular stone slabs were used in the paving, evoking a sense of nature breaking through the structured surfaces.”
Warmth in wood and greenery
Contrasting the concrete archive section, the office portion features wooden construction with a glulam facade stained in reddish tones.
“Tengbom has beautifully captured the essence of our natural surroundings,” says Håkan Viklund, Project Manager at the National Archives. “It’s a landmark for both Härnösand and the entire region.”
The exterior features a diverse range of natural elements and vegetation, with green spaces around the building designed to mimic nature. Rain gardens—lush, soft areas—will manage stormwater and provide contrast to the harder surfaces used for heavy transport and deliveries. A layer of crushed stone and gravel softens the parking area.
“It feels like play—the contrast between the natural and the man-made,”
Jenny Söderling, landscape architect and studio director at Tengbom.
Staff and visitors will also have opportunities to enjoy the natural surroundings. Benches and tables made from sturdy square timber beams will be placed in outdoor areas with wooden decks scattered across the site. A footbridge leads to a particularly tranquil spot where young pines grow—a serene lunch oasis beneath the tree canopy.
Climate-smart and high-tech at the National Archives
Solar panels, green roofs, and the aim to certify the National Archives under the Miljöbyggnad Guld standard are key components of its sustainability ambitions. High-tech solutions ensure optimal indoor climate control and fire safety. The Swedish Tax Agency will also share the premises, allowing two government agencies to work flexibly under one roof. The public area on the ground floor includes an auditorium, conference rooms, and a four-story reading room.
“This is a response to the pandemic. Many government agencies are now rethinking their spaces to accommodate hybrid meetings, hybrid work models, and the ability to offer remote work,” explains Håkan Viklund. “Personally, I’m glad we can still meet in person, and Tengbom has made that possible for us.”
A democratic memory bank
Archives may seem outdated today—are we really still collecting paper? Yet, under Swedish constitutional law, archives are a vital tool for ensuring public transparency. Making materials accessible and digitized also supports research and development.
“In today’s world, where democracy is under pressure in many places, an archive is a democratic institution,” says Pontus Eriksson. “It preserves the world, serving as a cornerstone of democratic society.”
