Hailey
The Emporia Shopping Center in Malmö, Sweden, is more than just a place to shop – it’s an architectural icon that blends modern design, sustainability, and public art into one breathtaking experience.
Designed by Gert Wingårdh of Wingårdh Arkitektkontor, Emporia is a bold departure from the usual boring “big box” shopping malls. Instead, it turns shopping into a memorable journey where design, art, and eco-friendly features work together to create something truly special.
A Landmark Beside the Øresund Bridge
Emporia is located near the Øresund Bridge, making it easily accessible to both locals and international visitors. Its location has helped Malmö gain a reputation as a design-forward city.
From a distance, you can spot its dramatic amber-colored entrance, which acts like a magnet for shoppers coming from Hyllie Station. The entrance is not just functional – it’s a symbol of Sweden’s natural beauty and commitment to sustainability.
The Stunning Curved Glass Facade
One of Emporia’s most eye-catching features is its curved glass panels, which shimmer in different colors depending on the light. One side glows with molten amber, while the other sparkles in deep marine blue, reflecting the nearby Øresund Strait.
This impressive facade was made possible by Cricursa, a manufacturer that custom-created 815 curved glass panels with Vanceva interlayers. This combination makes the shopping center look like a piece of public art as well as a functional building.
Breaking the Rules of Mall Interiors
Most malls follow a predictable grid layout, but Emporia’s interior is completely different. The three-level figure-eight layout encourages visitors to explore without getting bored. Inside, there are three themed atriums:
- Sea Court – inspired by water and calm blue shades
- Flower Court – filled with colorful, nature-inspired designs
- Indigo Court – a deep, rich color theme that feels luxurious
Each atrium has its own unique color palette, helping visitors navigate easily.
Attention to Every Detail
Emporia’s design doesn’t stop at big visual elements – every detail is thoughtfully created. From the custom-cast door handles to terrazzo flooring with shifting colors, nothing is ordinary. Even the handrails are wrapped in leather, and the ceilings feature custom lighting for a warm, inviting feel. The idea was to stimulate all senses – not just sight, but also touch, sound, and atmosphere.
The Rooftop Park – Nature Above the City
On top of the building lies one of Europe’s largest public green roofs, spanning 27,000 square meters. This rooftop park offers:
- Relaxation areas for visitors
- Spaces for biodiversity with plants and flowers
- Stormwater management to prevent flooding
- Heat island reduction to keep the area cooler
- Sound insulation for a quieter environment
This park not only provides stunning views of Malmö and the Øresund Bridge but also makes Emporia the first shopping center to earn BREEAM environmental certification.
Designed for People, Not Just Shopping
The architects wanted Emporia to feel like a cultural hub, not just a place to buy things. Natural materials like wood, leather, and fabric are used throughout, along with indoor plants and water features to make the space feel calm and connected to nature. This biophilic design approach improves mood, reduces stress, and makes people want to stay longer.
International Recognition
In 2013, Emporia won the World Architecture Festival Award for Best Shopping Building. This recognition placed Malmö on the global design map and proved that retail spaces can be beautiful, sustainable, and enjoyable.
Emporia Shopping Center
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Architect | Gert Wingårdh – Wingårdh Arkitektkontor |
| Location | Malmö, Sweden |
| Opening Year | 2012 |
| Area | 27,000 m² |
| Key Materials | Curved glass, terrazzo flooring, leather, wood |
| Special Features | Curved glass facade, rooftop park, themed atriums |
| Environmental Award | BREEAM Certification |
| Major Manufacturers | Gustafs, Saflex, Cricursa, Eastman, Falcon Lifts, Herrljunga, Interoc, VetroTech Saint-Gobain |
The Emporia Shopping Center in Malmö is a perfect example of how architecture can transform an everyday activity like shopping into an extraordinary experience.
With its curved glass facade, eco-friendly rooftop park, and beautifully designed interiors, it has become a symbol of modern Swedish design and a must-visit landmark for both locals and tourists. More than just a mall, Emporia is a celebration of sustainability, creativity, and community spirit.