Albano, a former industrial area in the northern parts of Stockholm, has been transformed into a new university district. Strategically located between the Frescati Campus of Stockholm University, the Royal Institute of Technology and the Karolinska Institute, the new Campus Albano will effectively unite these institutions, constituting the central node in the Stockholm Science City cluster. The landscape design for Campus Albano draws upon the site’s unique position within both the Royal National City Park and the cultural heritage landscape that surrounds the lake Brunnsviken. The landscape plays a fundamental role in structuring the campus environment, binding it together spatially, socially, and ecologically. As such, the master plan prioritizes views across the site and coherence with surrounding areas. The design aims to create an inviting and experience-rich public space, which supports social life on campus.

The dynamic landscape with water streams and plants allows water levels to vary throughout the year. Another approach is the usage of domestic plants, creating green corridors and resilience over time. Mimicking nature, ecological thinning is applied to forested areas. Full grown trees have been moved from other parts of the city and combined with new tree plantations. Meadows with a large variation of species have been created to strengthen biological diversity.

Centrally through the campus park runs a watercourse where the area’s stormwater is delayed and cleaned before it reaches the lake Brunnsviken. Located at the lowest point in the stream, the artwork Future Island by Ooze has been integrated into the landscape. It consists of an island divided into two climate zones that alter over time and show the impact of climate change.

Project Data

Landscape Architecture: Nivå

Other designers involved in the design of landscape: BSK Arkitekter, CCO Architects

Artist: Ooze

Project Location: Stockholm, Sweden

Design year: 2006-2023

Year Built: 2018-2023

Photography: Robin Hayes