The practice places particular emphasis on creating a relationship between a building and its context, whilst also addressing issues of functionality and the relationship between art, design and architecture.

Common to all the practice’s work is a democratic approach to architecture that creates modern, open and multi-functional spaces. SHLA’s portfolio is also deeply rooted in Scandinavian architectural traditions based on democracy, welfare, aesthetics, light, sustainability and social responsibility. Recently completed projects include the Amazon Court office building (Prague); the practice is currently engaged in two major UK projects - City of Westminster College (London) and Aberdeen University Library.