Stockholm is filled with spaces that inspire learning, creativity, and community, showcasing its commitment to education and public service. We’ll explore some of Stockholm’s most remarkable examples of educational and public architecture.
This is the fifth of eight articles about Stockholm’s architecture. Go to this page for a list of all articles in this series.
Nationalmuseum
The Nationalmuseum in Stockholm, Sweden, is the country’s premier museum of art and design, situated on the Blasieholmen peninsula. The building, designed by German architect Friedrich August Stüler, opened in 1866.
Inspired by Italian piazzas, the museum’s surroundings include 19th-century sculptures and offer a tranquil spot for visitors to relax. The building is designed in a Neo-Renaissance style, characterized by its symmetry, classical proportions, and ornate detailing.
A 12-meter steel sculpture stands outside the museum. It shows two figures breaking through a cage-like structure. This striking piece symbolizes a world without borders and was part of Ai Weiwei’s “Good Fences Make Good Neighbors” series.
Address: Södra Blasieholmshamnen 2 (Google maps)
School of Architecture (Arkitekturhögskolan)
KTH’s School of Architecture, designed by Tham & Videgård, opened in 2015. Its round CorTen steel form complements the old campus.
The design focuses on openness and connection. A sunken garden and roof terrace draw in light and link to nature.
Address: Osquars backe 5 (Google maps)
Stockholm Public Library
Designed by Gunnar Asplund, Stockholm Public Library opened in 1928 and is famed for its cylindrical rotunda and geometric form.
The library’s most distinctive feature is its central cylindrical rotunda, dramatically set within a square base. The design evokes grandeur and openness, flooding the rotunda with light. It symbolizes knowledge and the library’s role as a beacon.
Stockholm Public Library pioneered open shelves. Visitors could browse and take books without librarian assistance.
The library is open to the public, welcoming visitors to explore its impressive architecture and extensive collection.
Address: Odengatan 53 (Google maps)
The Nordic Museum
The Nordic Museum (Nordiska Museet) is Sweden’s largest cultural history museum. It sits on Djurgården in Stockholm. Founded by Artur Hazelius in 1873, the museum officially opened in its current building in 1907.
Architect Isak Gustaf Clason designed the building in Renaissance Revival style. Its vast hall creates a dramatic, cathedral-like space.
Construction of the museum began in 1888 and spanned over 19 years. The building was conceived as a national monument. It preserves Sweden’s cultural heritage and stands as a lasting symbol.
Address: Djurgårdsvägen 6-16 (Google maps)
Sjöhistoriska museet
The Maritime Museum (Sjöhistoriska Museet) opened in 1938, designed by Ragnar Östberg. It highlights Sweden’s naval and maritime heritage.
The building has a white plaster façade and a curved shape. A domed tower rises at its center. Its design reflects a balance of elegance and functionality, perfectly complementing its picturesque surroundings.
Situated near Djurgårdsbrunnsviken, the museum offers scenic views and outdoor spaces ideal for picnics. From its grounds, you also have a stunning view of the Nordic Museum across the water.
Address: Djurgårdsbrunnsvägen 24 (Google maps)
Vasamuseet
The Vasa Museum (Vasamuseet) in Stockholm, Sweden, is a world-renowned maritime museum located on the island of Djurgården. The museum is known for the Vasa, a fully preserved 17th-century ship. It tragically sank on its maiden voyage in 1628.
Designed by architects Marianne Dahlbäck and Göran Månsson, the museum was constructed between 1987 and 1990. The building looks like a copper tent with masts showing the Vasa’s height. It blends well with Djurgården’s parkland.
Painted in deep Swedish hues, the wooden façade recalls historic shipyards and connects the museum to its maritime roots.
Address: Galärvarvsvägen 14 (Google maps)
