The building is not only architecturally distinctive with its cylindrical shape, monumental timber structure, and large glass façades, but also serves as a venue for gatherings where people meet and socialise. It is a space where culture, food, and experiences are interwoven with Volvo's history, present and future.
A unique project in many ways
According to Anna Lindskog and Pia Ållenberg, project managers at Inhouse Tech, the unusually large number of stakeholders in the project is one of its standout features.
In their roles, they have ensured that all parties – from the clients Volvo Cars and Volvo Group to the architectural firm Henning Larsen and other designers, as well as the contractor BRA Bygg and subcontractors – have worked towards the shared goal and vision for the project: that Volvo wants to give back to the city's residents.
IT HAS BEEN BOTH CHALLENGING, ENJOYABLE AND SOME ISSUES HAVE REQUIRED ITERATIONS OR REVISITS. BUT AS LONG AS EVERYONE INVOLVED CARES ABOUT GETTING IT RIGHT IN THE END, AS IN THIS CASE, THE FINAL RESULT WILL TURN OUT WELL.
Flexibility and adaptability throughout the entire process
Early in the project, the architectural firm Henning Larsen presented a sketch where the large car park was hidden within a landscape, with the World of Volvo positioned above. The proposal took everyone by surprise. The challenges it posed, particularly in terms of knowledge about property development with 3D elements, turned out to be a journey in itself.
Building in the heart of a major city always presents challenges, such as detailed development plans, infrastructure and curious residents. In the case of World of Volvo, one significant challenge was the neighbouring developments, as Liseberg was expanding the amusement park with several new buildings. This placed greater demands on collaboration, particularly for logistics and careful planning, to ensure the project progressed smoothly and according to plan.
Another factor that tested the project managers’ flexibility was the fact that the organisation now set to operate the World of Volvo didn’t exist when the project began. While it was determined that the building would include commercial kitchens, concert venues, exhibition spaces and conference facilities, exactly what would take place in the various parts of the building was not finalised.
"It has added an extra layer of complexity and required great flexibility from everyone involved in adapting to changes and new ideas along the way. Just being involved in such a prestigious project is both flattering and inspiring. It’s truly exciting to see what we as a team can achieve together. Being part of urban development and creating new landmarks is completely in line with what we as a company want to be involved in. We aim to be a key player in this type of project", says Pia Ållenberg.
The same team throughout the entire project
Inhouse Tech's ambition is to keep the team intact throughout a project, but this requires that the project allows for individual development. When this is achieved, the unique knowledge and experience accumulated by each individual throughout the journey can be fully leveraged. Continuity promotes smooth communication between different stakeholders and suppliers, and plays a key role in maintaining the project's progress and quality.
Our task has been to greese the wheels throughout the entire process.
Investing in the development of internal expertise is also a priority for Inhouse Tech. By focusing on building and preserving knowledge within the team, the company not only ensures delivery to the highest possible standard but also creates a platform for continuous professional development on an individual level. This long-term perspective benefits not only the project at hand, but also the team, the company, and the client – which is part of Inhouse Tech's commitment to being a key player in urban development.
