White Research Lab

We engage in practice-based research that supports sustainable ways of living. For us, research is a way in which we challenge standard practices to create better architecture and a better society for all. Through integrating different disciplines, we can attain higher levels of sustainability and quality in our projects. By sharing our knowledge, we increase the ways in which we can contribute to overcoming societal challenges, as well as attracting collaborators that share the same passion and goals.

Curiosity equals innovation

Research and development has been a fundamental part of our working culture since the practice was established in 1951. Today, knowledge and curiosity remain as fundamental business assets; our explorative culture is reflected in our investment; ten percent of our annual turnover is dedicated to R&D. Our employee ownership structure allows us to support R&D activities on a broad basis; from bottom-up initiatives in our assignments, to practice-based research in collaboration with academia. The White Research Lab focuses upon three key themes: equitable architecture, resource efficiency and informed design.

The advantage of being a large collective is the sheer amount of knowledge we amass as a whole. The key to using this knowledge is to share it, build upon it and continually develop it.

Anna-Johanna Klasander, Director of Research and Development

Key development networks

Our four development networks are creative clusters that operate in direct relation to practice and help us achieve a greater depth of knowledge within important transdisciplinary fields of research. These networks are centres of excellence, formed in response to societal challenges, market demands and the built environment.

Dsearch

Dsearch develops architecture through computational design, incorporating prototyping, parametrics and explorative iterative design. Combining mathematical thinking with new digital tools and the design process, Dsearch offers the opportunity to analyse complex situations, create new architectonic expressions and rationally produce architectural forms that previously required great crafting skills. Dsearch findings can be applied to design expressive façades, interiors or landscapes, but also to optimise daylight, energy use and structures across different scales; from urban design to interiors.

The mesmerising form of the Quality Hotel Globe Stockholm's event space was defined through parametric design. The Dsearch process also lowered material and energy use.

Wood

White Arkitekter has a long tradition of working with wood; we were the first architectural practice to design tall timber buildings in Sweden. We have set an ambitious target to design 30 projects with a zero-carbon footprint by 2019. To that end, the practice has strengthened research and design skills that focus on timber technologies. As wood is a renewable resource; it is a construction material that embodies a low environmental impact. In addition, its aesthetic qualities contribute to a healthy, high quality environment for all; from workers on site, to end users.

Light

Light focuses on the architectural qualities of natural light and lighting design, taking into account health benefits as well as the energy and quantitative analyses of light in architecture. We design with light in mind as a response to a basic human need, and treat it as a core quality of architecture. The Light network progresses the field of daylight design and computation through research, exhibitions, and the day-to-day involvement in the development of daylight methodologies.

Satelliten Youth Centre's sun-filled sports hall is one example of the Light network's daylight methodologies in action.

Tectonics

Tectonics is where building and construction details are developed alongside key architectural features to achieve new functions and sustainable solutions. The Tectonics network constantly seeks to improve existing technologies to innovate architectural elements; from door handles to the scale of a building. The combination of technical and poetic solutions results in design that facilitates carbon neutrality, allows a unique aesthetic, or simply finds a better way to keep the rain out.

Read our Research Programme

Our Research Programme for 2020-2023 has an overall theme of Informed Design and a focus on the areas of Circular Architecture and Healthy Living Environments. During the programme period White Research Lab will stimulate R&D that pushes boundaries for what’s possible, that makes a difference for both people and the planet, and that shows how architecture, design and urban planning can contribute to the Global Goals. Click here to read the programme.