Located in southern Sweden, Malmö is a city that beautifully blends historical charm with modern innovation.
Known for its rich architectural heritage, it offers a diverse range of buildings that showcase styles from different eras.
What are the must-see architectural marvels in Malmö?
This guide will introduce you to some of the most impressive buildings that highlight the city’s unique character and design prowess.
Whether you’re drawn to medieval structures or contemporary feats of engineering, Malmö’s architecture provides a fascinating journey through time and aesthetics.
1. Turning Torso
Turning Torso is a remarkable feature in Malmö’s skyline. This neo-futurist skyscraper was designed by Santiago Calatrava and completed in 2005.
It stands at 190 meters (623 feet) tall and consists of 54 stories.
The building rotates a full 90 degrees along nine pentagonal sections. This design makes it stand out as one of the world’s first twisting skyscrapers.
It remains an iconic landmark in Sweden and a major tourist attraction.
Turning Torso is largely residential but also includes some office spaces.
The design was inspired by a twisting human body, adding a dynamic aesthetic to the city’s architecture.
Visitors and residents often marvel at its unique form and cutting-edge design.
For more information, you can visit the Wikipedia page on Turning Torso.
2. Malmö Live Concert Hall
Malmö Live Concert Hall is a striking piece of architecture in Malmö, Sweden. Completed in 2015, it combines modern design with functional spaces.
The complex spans 54,000 square meters and includes a concert hall, congress center, and hotel.
Its cubic forms and varying sizes match the surrounding city’s directions and heights.
Designed by schmidt hammer lassen architects, the building features an open and accessible ground floor.
This design reflects modern Scandinavian architectural traditions, focusing on clear, functional organization.
Visitors can easily explore the ground floor, making it a vibrant and inviting space.
The concert hall itself provides excellent acoustics and hosts a variety of performances. For more, visit the Malmö Live website.
3. St. Peter’s Church
St. Peter’s Church, also known as Sankt Petri kyrka, is a key example of Brick Gothic architecture located in Malmö, Sweden.
Built in the 14th century, it serves as one of the main Gothic monuments in the region of Scania.
The church played an important role during the Reformation, becoming a spiritual center for the area.
It also has late medieval murals that are highly regarded for their artistic quality.
With its 105-meter (344-foot) high tower, St. Peter’s Church stands out in the city’s skyline.
The building is well-preserved thanks to regular conservation efforts. It remains an important cultural and historical landmark in Malmö.
For more details, you can visit its Wikipedia page.
4. Emporia Shopping Center
Emporia Shopping Center in Malmö stands out with its modern design and striking architecture. Located in the Hyllie district, Emporia is recognizable for its unique glass structure and free-form entrances.
Opened on October 24, 2012, Emporia was designed by Wingårdhs architects, making it a landmark in urban design.
The building features retail spaces, office blocks, and residential areas, creating a multifunctional space.
Emporia’s innovative use of materials like wood, glass, and steel contribute to its impressive aesthetic.
It not only serves as a bustling shopping destination but also integrates seamlessly into the city’s layout.
The center’s architecture pushes the boundaries by using 3D structures, setting a new standard for commercial buildings. For more about its design, you can visit Emporia shopping centre in Malmö.
5. Moderna Museet Malmö
Moderna Museet Malmö stands out with its unique blend of historical and modern architecture.
Originally an electricity plant built in 1900, this building was transformed into an art museum in 2009 by Tham & Videgård Arkitekter.
Located in the southern part of Sweden, the museum adds to the rich cultural landscape of Malmö.
The new design integrates the old industrial structure with contemporary elements, creating a striking visual contrast.
Since its opening, Moderna Museet Malmö has become a key destination for art lovers.
It showcases a variety of contemporary art exhibitions, making it a significant cultural hub.
Visitors can enjoy the museum’s innovative design, which enhances the display of art.
The building itself has become an integral part of the art experience, reflecting the creativity and history of the space.
Learn more about the architecture and exhibitions at Moderna Museet Malmö here.
6. Malmö City Library
Malmö City Library is a remarkable blend of old and new architecture.
The original building, known as “The Castle,” dates back to 1901 and features a Renaissance style.
In 1999, Danish architect Henning Larsen designed a modern extension called the “Calendar of Light.”
This new section stands out with its light, airy, glass design that beautifully contrasts the historic structure.
The library’s location in palace gardens allows for stunning views of the surrounding park and reflecting lake.
Inside, large illuminated spaces create an inviting atmosphere for visitors.
The combination of historical and modern elements makes Malmö City Library a must-see.
Learn more about this architectural gem by exploring Malmö City Library.
7. Point Hyllie
Point Hyllie, set to become Malmö’s second tallest building, is part of an ambitious project in the Hyllie area.
The highest tower in this development is planned to reach 180 meters.
This complex will feature four high-rise buildings.
Point Hyllie is designed to be a major landmark, reflecting Malmö’s modern and innovative spirit.
The area around Point Hyllie is rapidly developing. It includes shopping centers and transport hubs, making it a key location in the city.
8. Västra Hamnen
Västra Hamnen is a standout district in Malmö.
This area has been transformed from a 175-hectare industrial wasteland into a vibrant neighborhood.
You’ll find a mix of modern living spaces, workplaces, educational institutions, and leisure spots.
One of Västra Hamnen’s most iconic buildings is the Turning Torso.
Standing 190 meters tall, this skyscraper twists its way into the sky, offering stunning views of the city.
The development of Västra Hamnen began in 2001 and has attracted top architects from around the world.
Their designs blend contemporary aesthetics with sustainable practices. It’s become a symbol of innovative architecture in Malmö.
9. Triangeln
Triangeln is a striking mixed-use building in Malmö, Sweden.
Designed by FOJAB arkitekter, this complex incorporates retail, residential, office, and parking spaces.
The design cleverly weaves these functions together in a cohesive multistory structure.
Located in a bustling area of Malmö, Triangeln is a hub of activity.
Its modern architecture adds a futuristic touch to the cityscape, making it a vital part of the urban environment.
10. Kungsparken Castle Pavilion
Kungsparken Castle Pavilion is a notable structure located in the historic Kungsparken.
This park is the oldest in Malmö, having opened in 1872 by King Oscar II.
Designed by Danish architect Ove Hoegh Hansen, the pavilion offers a glimpse into the past.
The pavilion is set within Kungsparken, which was created on land that originally belonged to Malmöhus Castle.
The scenic surroundings include ponds and a diverse range of plant species.
Visitors to Kungsparken often find the Castle Pavilion an ideal spot for relaxation.
The peaceful atmosphere, combined with the historical significance, makes it a must-see landmark in Malmö.
More details about the park can be found here and here.
Architectural Styles in Malmö
Malmö offers a rich array of architectural styles that reflect its historical roots and modern innovations.
From traditional designs to sleek contemporary structures, the city’s architecture paints a diverse and fascinating picture.
Historical Influences
One of the standout historical structures in Malmö is Hotel Kramer.
Built in 1875, this building showcases typical 19th-century European architectural styles, reflecting influences from outside Scandinavia.
The blend of intricate detailing and grandiose facades are hallmarks of this era, creating a sense of old-world charm.
Another significant historical site is the Malmö City Library, originally known as “The Castle.”
Constructed in 1901, this building melds traditional architecture with modern updates, including a light-filled, airy glass addition designed by Danish architect Henning Larsen. This combination of old and new provides a unique visual appeal.
Contemporary Designs
Contemporary architecture in Malmö is epitomized by the Turning Torso.
Designed by Santiago Calatrava, this twisting skyscraper is an iconic symbol of modern innovation.
Standing 190 meters tall, it is one of Scandinavia’s tallest buildings and features over 2,300 windows.
This neo-futurist structure is also powered by renewable energy, highlighting a commitment to sustainability.
Modern public spaces also reflect contemporary design principles.
The newer parts of Malmö City Library, for example, continue to embrace natural light and open spaces, creating inviting environments for visitors. These designs prioritize functionality and aesthetics, enhancing the urban landscape with cutting-edge architectural styles.
Noteworthy Architects
Malmo boasts architectural marvels that highlight the genius of its designers. Two prominent names are Santiago Calatrava and Erik Lallerstedt, each contributing significantly to the city’s skyline.
Santiago Calatrava
Santiago Calatrava, a Spanish architect, is renowned for his futuristic and innovative designs.
He is the mastermind behind Malmo’s Turning Torso, Sweden’s tallest building.
The structure stands at 190 meters with 54 floors and resembles a twisting human torso.
Calatrava’s design reflects his background in both architecture and engineering, creating a dynamic form that appears to twist along its height.
The Turning Torso has become a symbol of modern architecture and innovation in Malmo.
Calatrava’s work is characterized by its unique aesthetic and structural ingenuity.
His buildings often feature organic forms inspired by the human body and nature.
This approach not only makes his designs visually striking but also functionally efficient, integrating form and function seamlessly.
Erik Lallerstedt
Erik Lallerstedt, a Swedish architect, made significant contributions to Malmo’s architectural heritage.
Known for his traditional and classical design styles, Lallerstedt’s work contrasts with the modern designs of his contemporaries.
One notable project is the Malmö Opera and Music Theatre, which showcases his attention to detail and dedication to creating beautiful, functional spaces.
Lallerstedt’s buildings are often characterized by their grandeur and use of classical elements such as columns, decorative moldings, and symmetrical layouts.
His work has left a lasting impact on Malmo’s architectural scene, blending traditional aesthetics with practical considerations to create timeless structures that continue to be admired today.
Urban Development and Planning
In Malmö, a focus on sustainable design and creating public spaces that enhance community life drives urban development.
These elements transform the city, making it both innovative and eco-friendly.
Sustainable Design
Malmö is leading the way in sustainable urban development. A notable example is Västra Hamnen, the first climate-neutral district in Sweden, which uses 100% renewable energy.
Building designs in this area prioritize energy efficiency by utilizing solar and wind power. The district reuses water and raw materials, minimizing waste.
Another example is Bo01, known as the “City of Tomorrow.” The planners promoted diversity in architecture, leading to an experimental and pleasant living environment.
Buildings here incorporate recycled materials and renewable energy sources, setting a benchmark for future urban projects.
Public Spaces
Public spaces in Malmö are designed to foster community interaction and active lifestyles.
The city’s urban planning encourages walking and biking through dedicated lanes and pedestrian-friendly streets.
Västra Hamnen, for instance, is known for its inviting public areas that blend seamlessly with the built environment.
Malmö Live, a dynamic building completed in 2015, offers numerous activities, enhancing the city’s cultural scene.
It includes concert halls, a hotel, and a residential complex, providing a vibrant center for residents and visitors alike.
These spaces not only add to the aesthetic appeal but also serve practical purposes, making them integral to urban life.
Creating these interactive spaces reflects Malmö’s commitment to designing areas that are both functional and socially engaging.
By emphasizing accessibility and community involvement, the city ensures that its public spaces meet the needs of its diverse population.