Unda
Unda is Latin and means wave. A wave on the water can symbolize many things. One interpretation can be change or power—two words that well describe the idea behind the design of the accumulator tower. Gothenburg is a city with high ambitions in sustainability. Sustainability is about making long-term changes that benefit both people and the planet. Change is a necessary part of achieving sustainability because it means breaking away from old habits and traditions that may be harmful to the environment and society. Sustainability also requires strength and determination to drive change forward. I have incorporated these two values into the design of the tower. The wave has come to symbolize these and is repeatedly present at several scales in the design. The choice of materials is inspired by those commonly used by Göteborg Energi. The building's purpose is easily communicated through these materials, following a building tradition I intended to adhere to. Nevertheless, I chose to depart from traditional materials and opted for a semi-transparent sinusoidal plastic instead of an external sheet metal facade. This is to create an interesting depth in the building and to illuminate it from within during the evening. The materials are commonly found in the surrounding area, thus harmonizing with it. At the same time, the tower, with its wavy form, breaks up the otherwise boxy and angular shapes in the area.
