A harmonious blend of beauty and environmental awareness

Hyllie Terrass is an office building in Malmö, Sweden, developed by SKANSKA, with precast and steel structures produced by UPB Group. This white concrete building stands out not only for its high aesthetic appeal, but also for its commitment to becoming the first climate-neutral office building in Sweden. This remarkable structure combines sustainability with stunning design elements, creating a harmonious blend of beauty and environmental awareness.

Sustainability in every aspect 

This 12-story office complex is Skanska's first ever carbon-neutral building and is part of a pilot study conducted by the Sweden Green Building Council for NollCO2 certification. NollCO2 certification guarantees that no additional CO2 is emitted during the life of the building. It covers everything from design to operation, including production, transportation, recycling and energy solutions. Strict emission targets must be met to obtain this certification. UPB worked closely with SKANSKA from the beginning of the project to reduce CO2 emissions, particularly in the concrete and steel structures. 

UPB experts offered different strategies for design, production and logistics, resulting in significant CO2 reductions: about 33% for precast elements and 53% for steel elements. These results were compared with UPB's 2015 environmental product statements. In addition to the NollCO2 certification, Hyllie Terrass will also be certified for sustainability (LEED) and health (WELL). 

Hyllie Terrass serves as an inspiration for future office buildings, demonstrating that sustainability and aesthetics can go hand in hand. By prioritizing climate neutrality and high visual appeal, this remarkable structure proves that it is possible to create beautiful spaces while minimizing environmental impact.

Signature with the white precast concrete facade

To obtain a bright white surface for the facade, a unique recipe was developed. Aalborg White Portland cement, titanium dioxide (TiO2) pigment and white silica fume were used as additives. The high purity and chemical stability of the white cement is paramount in producing a high-quality facade surface. Mixed with pigment and additives, it provides consistent concrete properties and appearance. TiO2 has a high degree of refraction and is a UV-resistant material that significantly increases the brightness of the concrete. White silica fume enhances both the fresh and hardened state of the concrete. In the fresh state, the ultrafine and spherical particles of silica fume increase the volume of the concrete paste, making it more stable and fluid. In the hardened state, silica fume acts as an effective pozzolanic agent that reacts with the free calcium hydroxide in the concrete. Silica fume reduces permeability, increases durability and allows lower cement content while maintaining concrete strength.

The façade was designed using a Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA) approach, which ensured that only three types of modules were used. These modules consisted of flat vertical and horizontal louvers, one window, exterior sills and a recessed rib pattern 125 mm deep. The overall visual character of the building is enhanced by the play of light and shadow. The white facade contrasts with the green facades on the upper floors, creating a striking effect.

Off-site construction 

Prior to delivery, large aluminum-framed windows were pre-installed at the factory in concrete wall elements. Each floor assembled on site creates an enclosed construction area. The facade is finished and the interior walls are prepared for final finishing.