Swedish tap water is among the cleanest in the world, yet public access has been limited for years due to dismantled water fountains. Meanwhile, Swedes spend around 6 billion SEK annually on bottled water — equivalent to 6,000 truckloads a year.

The Slussen drinking fountains aim to unite function, sustainability, and site-specific design in a public installation. Drawing on Slussen’s waterside location and high traffic, the fountain offers a free, accessible alternative to bottled water and integrates into the new urban landscape as both a practical and symbolic element — with water as a shared resource and theme.

Designed by Form Us With Love for Stockholm Konst, the solution is tailored to the site’s character and people’s movement patterns. It responds to the needs of a broad audience while blending into the public space.

The fountain promotes sustainable habits by encouraging the use of local tap water over bottled alternatives. Its location — where quays, plazas, and walkways meet — reinforces the connection between water use and place identity.

Made of polished stainless steel, the design prioritizes hygiene, safety, and accessibility. It is easy to clean, resists bacterial buildup, and is built to withstand public wear. The spout avoids direct contact, and water drains fully after each use to prevent stagnation. It is also designed to be non-obstructive and usable by people of all abilities.

With up to 50,000 people passing through daily in peak season, the fountain is expected to see high use. It is shut off during winter to ensure operational safety.

In summary, the fountain exemplifies how thoughtful design can support sustainability and enhance public space while contributing to a broader urban transformation centered around water.