Sara Kulturhus – named after the Swedish author Sara Lidman who grew up here – is now making a lasting impact on the skyline of the city. Measuring 80 metres in height, the 20-storey structure is one of the world’s tallest timber buildings. The centre is home to a theatre, museum, art gallery, the city library and a modern hotel featuring 205 rooms, a spa and restaurants. The wood used in the construction of the building originates from local forests and was processed into building modules in Bygdsiljum, just 60 kilometres away from Skellefteå. With this building, White Arkitekter – who was awarded the contract for the project after an international competition – is tying in with the long tradition of timber construction seen in the region.