Hagsätra Centre

An open, modernist square with a paddling pool as its focal point. That is how dance-drawn Hagsätra Centre could be described in the early 1960s. The 1990s brought extensions, and the square was gradually transformed into a place with dark passages, unclear routes and safety concerns. But now it is time for a new phase of renewal — and this time we look back in history. Together with Ikano, Tengbom has developed a proposal. A detailed development plan is now underway to revitalise the centre, add housing to the area and at the same time preserve the fine original qualities.

The safety issue shapes our proposal, both in the residential courtyards and in the centre itself.

Safety built forward

Hagsätra is part of one of the city’s projects for social sustainability. And the safety issue shapes our proposal, both in the residential courtyards and in the centre itself. To enhance safety and revive 1960s character, we return to a large and open square. By opening up what was once built over, we create a generous, open plaza with improved flows and natural meeting points. A new building on the square frames the space with both housing and ground-floor premises. With improved lighting and active ground floors, we can create the conditions for a safer environment in Hagsätra Centre.

Original qualities brought to light

Beneath the extensions, Hagsätra Centre holds a range of remarkable original qualities. Our proposal aims to integrate new residential buildings as sensitively as possible within the framework of the 1950s and 1960s architecture that exists today. The proposal reconnects with the square’s original rectangular form and recreates original qualities and orientations, while respecting existing movement patterns. The new building on the square nods to the pavilion’s former position and accentuates the square’s geometry.

Around the centre, we add new residential buildings and also connect the courtyards so that they become shielded from traffic. By demolishing selected parts of the extensions on the square and building almost exclusively on former surface parking areas, we not only free up space — we also restore Hagsätra Centre’s original charm.