Kroatorpet

Kroatorpet originally dates from the 18th century. When the motorway was built in the 1960s, it was moved a few hundred meters from its original location and became a coffee cottage for passing travelers and local Huskvarna residents. Today, it houses Landhs konditori, which serves both motorists and locals with meals and pastries.

“It was time for an upgrade.”

Anna Larsson, architect at Tengbom in Jönköping.

“While carefully preserving the original buildings, we’ve improved the staff’s work environment and the flow for guests. The new extension with glass walls functions both as a barrier to the motorway and as an opening toward Huskvarna’s most beautiful feature. The view over Lake Vättern.”

The new dining room offers views — free from motorway noise

Because the two older main buildings were to be preserved, the most significant change took place between them. Here, a completely new restaurant section now connects the buildings, with a transparent dining room that captures the view while shielding against noise. Even outdoor café guests are now protected from motorway sounds thanks to the new section. This improvement makes it possible to host more events during the warmer months.

“We worked with wood interiors to retain the cozy and warm atmosphere, using white-stained wooden slats, panels, and glulam beams,” says architect Håkan Albeman. “The exterior façades of the older houses remain visible as interior walls. And despite the large glass surfaces, we managed to create a good acoustic environment.”

We love courageous investments

Local collaborations

Several local companies were involved in the transformation. The furniture, for example, comes from Karl Andersson & Söner’s furniture factory, located just a few minutes’ walk from Kroatorpet.

“The new dining hall has created a space that gives the business an entirely different economic foundation,” says Anna. “It was a courageous investment by the local heritage association, and now we can attract many more visitors. Many are travelers passing by, but we’ve also managed to strengthen an important meeting place for us Huskvarna residents.”

Kroatorpet awarded for building conservation

The design of the new section complements the older buildings. While it is clearly a modern addition, the gabled roof and classic Småland wooden construction—with its fine proportions—enhance the original houses and harmonize with the rich cultural setting.

In 2022, the city of Jönköping awarded the renovation of Kroatorpet the Urban Design Prize. The jury selected it in the category “Good Building Conservation.”