Bergman CenterBergman CenterBergman Center
In ThamVidegård’s winning scheme, two existing buildings are linked into one through the addition of a new, steeply pitched roof that creates double-height exhibition spaces, as well as a new upper level for a library, video rooms, offices and the Fårö museum. The reduced and prismatic exterior volume establishes a direct relation to the local vernacular architecture of Fårö island. It is clad with industrial tar paper, which allows the BCF to stand out as a new and recognisable contemporary addition in relation to its environs: an open agricultural landscape.
The competition task was to renovate and extend two buildings at the former Fårö school for the new Bergman Center. The Bergman Center Foundation on Fårö is responsible for managing and developing the artistic Bergman heritage in a variety of ways. The new BC will be the centre for the annual Bergman Week's public activities and will also include a permanent exhibition, thematic exhibitions, a cinema, a café, a listening room, a library, a Fårö museum and a cinematographic park.
The design and materials are straightforward and robust throughout. Externally, the building’s character is defined by a slate-covered bitumen membrane laid in diagonal joints on the roof and façade. The slate chips protect the waterproofing and create a shimmering surface that changes with the daylight.
A consistent monochrome colour scheme in the interior emphasises the different parts of the BC and establishes a dynamic transition between the exhibition spaces, entrance and café, the local history museum and cinema.
The proposal features a black exhibition area, a bright red entrance and café, light natural-coloured plywood in the local history museum and library, and a deep, dark red cinema. Floors are mainly made of solid wood and polished, painted concrete, with installation flooring in the exhibition rooms. Openable perforated hatches form an opening gesture in the sharply cut building volume and act as sunshades, filtering light into the main entrance, café and foyer areas.
