#1 Strategic partner for data centres in Europe
Data Center design – All services under one roof from feasibility studies to commissioning
The importance of data centers continues to grow as the need for high‑performance computing, artificial intelligence and data storage increases. Operational reliability, energy efficiency, and adaptability are key factors in data center design – and Sweco ensures these through thoroughly tested methodologies and advanced design principles tailored to each project’s requirements.
We manage the spatial, structural and technical building systems comprehensively, ensuring a high‑performance and robust data center.
Europe‑wide Data Center design – Supported by local expertise
We operate across Europe, and our expert teams are already involved in rapidly growing data center markets.
Our local expertise ensures smooth progress in design, permitting processes and implementation across various regulatory environments. We work with an extensive expert network and understand regional conditions and stakeholder expectations. As a result, our clients benefit from smoother cooperation with authorities and a clear view of project feasibility and progress.
We flexibly combine project management, construction management and supervision with architectural, technical building systems and structural engineering expertise. Tight schedules are easier to meet when all required data center services are available under one roof.
Strong and centralized leadership in Data Center design
A data center is a precisely engineered entity where every decision affects the outcome. We provide individually tailored project management and construction management services, supported by comprehensive design coordination. We manage risks, align technical solutions and ensure that the design progresses according to the project objectives.
Our proactive operating model identifies challenges early, reducing the need for changes, supporting better decision‑making and keeping the project under control from start to finish.
Keeping the Data Center project on schedule
Adhering to timelines is a cornerstone of data center project success. Our teams focus on risk anticipation, tight coordination between design disciplines and constructive responses to changes.
We combine deep technical expertise with clear communication and structured design management. This helps clients make decisions that keep the project moving and ensure the achievement of critical milestones – without surprises.
A Seamless partnership throughout the entire project lifecycle
We support data center projects from start to finish. Clients can utilize our expertise to the extent they choose – from individual technical insights to comprehensive support from strategy to commissioning.
Early involvement brings the greatest value: we help define effective strategies, reduce risks and ensure that technical solutions support timelines, costs and operational targets as a whole.
Data center specialists
Data center projects in Europe
Phases of a Data Center project
We support you in identifying a suitable location for the data center and assessing lifecycle and environmental impacts already in the early phases. We perform site analyses and feasibility studies that consider existing facilities as well as available technical systems and infrastructure, such as district heating and main electrical network connections.
To ensure fast progress, we participate in negotiations with energy and electricity companies as well as local building authorities.
Sweco conducts cost and carbon footprint comparisons using transparent methodologies and verified CFD modelling practices to ensure environmental impact improvements.
Data Center facilities and layout – The Core of server hall design
Designing server halls requires deep understanding of:
- equipment
- structures
- cooling
- power supply
- safety requirements
Our architects create layouts and concept designs, complemented by detailed structural and technical building systems solutions. When needed, we localize facilities designed abroad to meet Finnish regulations and conditions.
Fast‑paced design process
Our dedicated data center architects and experts in technical building systems and structural engineering work as a tightly integrated team. This accelerates decision‑making and ensures:
- a tight schedule
- flexible changes even during construction
- compatibility of solutions throughout all project phases
Data Center commissioning
We ensure operational reliability according to the selected Tier classification (Tier 1–4). We typically design redundant backup power and UPS systems, and power supply can be secured from multiple directions within the transmission network. Many of our experts have contractor backgrounds, supporting the feasibility of our design solutions.
Reliable building automation is at the heart of technical operations. Through test runs and functional tests, we verify all critical systems. We also provide construction and MEP supervision as well as continuous operational support to ensure data center performance.
Data Center cooling
Cooling is a significant part of data center operations, as server hall equipment generates substantial heat. The efficiency of the cooling system directly impacts equipment performance and energy consumption. Proper cooling design must consider heat loads, hall size and airflow.
Our special expertize in Data Center design
Architectural design of data centers
Our chief designer ensures that the optimal location for the data center is found and that the project achieves a functional, sustainable, energy-efficient and finished result.
During the planning process, we maintain the team spirit of the entire planning team and ensure that schedules are adhered to with our active presence. We also provide interior design for data center interiors, such as offices.
Work with us to ensure that your data center design takes into account all relevant aspects, from functional requirements to visual identity.
Data center project management and construction services
The project must be managed in such a way that the end result meets the set goals, stays within budget and is ready for implementation at the agreed time. To achieve this, strong project management and construction management skills are needed. Our expertise covers the entire project life cycle – from the design phase to the commissioning of the completed data center.
Discover project and construction management
Data center structural engineering
We design new buildings and modify existing properties for data center use. We use a variety of materials and frame solutions in a versatile and cost-effective manner. We have extensive expertise in the design of concrete, steel and wood structures.
We carry out thorough surveys and studies of existing properties, assessing the load-bearing capacities of structures and their suitability for data center use. Our experienced team takes into account all the special features of data centers, such as suspensions, penetrations, loads and possible security classification requirements. We also offer workshop and part design services to meet our customers’ needs in a versatile manner.
Building services for data centers
Implementing a cost-effective data center requires smart building technology solutions based on flexible and modular electricity distribution, energy-efficient cooling systems and waste heat recovery systems that expand as needed.
Sweco develops advanced cooling solutions, including free cooling and water cooling systems, designed to maximize data center energy efficiency. In addition, we offer comprehensive services for the design of data center building automation, monitoring systems and gas extinguishing systems to ensure that the entire building services system supports the optimal operation of your data center.
Sustainable data center
Sustainable data centers are an important part of modern technology infrastructure as we strive to meet the ever-growing need for digital data processing. Sweco employs tailored energy-efficient designs, renewable energy systems, and advanced cooling technologies to minimize resource consumption and maximize environmental performance.
Sweco designs data centers equipped with flexible structures and energy systems, ensuring adaptability to evolving technologies and capacity demands throughout their lifecycle.
Contact us,
and we will help ensure that your data center’s design and delivery progress smoothly and in line with your objectives.
Together, we can build the data center solutions of the future.
Antti-Jussi Laine
Data Centre Business LeadEero Virtanen
Structural EngineeringJussi Alilehto
HVACJuuso Kohvakka
Electrical DesignTeemu Meriluoto
Project and construction managementKalevi Saarela
Architecture