Anna Whitlock’s Upper Secondary School

Originally constructed in 1926, the building was designed as office space for various government agencies, earning it the nickname Ämbetshuset (“The Government Building”). Over the years, it housed institutions such as the National Board of Public Works and the Swedish National Agency for Education, before becoming home to the County Administrative Board in the 1970s, which remained there until 2015.

“We wanted to preserve memories of the building’s past. Leftover door openings became bookshelves or display cases, and forgotten attic spaces were transformed into art studios”, says Amanda LeCorney, architect at Tengbom. “The students have awakened the building from its slumber. It’s more alive and vibrant than ever before.”

Adapting history for modern education

The key challenge in repurposing the building was creating enough classrooms within a structure originally designed for small offices with load-bearing walls.

For a functional learning environment, classrooms need to be around 60 square metres, with proportions that support good acoustics and clear communication. The solution? Removing some of the load-bearing heart walls, but only in the courtyard wings, which were less historically sensitive. This allowed for the larger rooms required for subjects like chemistry and biology, without compromising the building’s heritage.

“It’s amazing to see how the students have made the building their own. Lounging in the seating we designed or working in a window nook,” says Amanda.

More light, more space, more interaction

Originally, the building had dark corridors, with offices lining the façade. By removing the heart walls, the circulation spaces were moved to the courtyard side, bringing in natural light. Unlike newly built schools, which often prioritise teaching spaces over social areas, this adaptation made clever use of existing spaces, turning leftover areas into valuable communal spots.

Moving through the school now, you feel its generosity. Each floor offers study spaces and social areas, creating a more dynamic learning environment.

A courtyard with identity

The building lacked a large gathering space for its many students, and the existing courtyard was structurally unsound. The solution? A new courtyard design, inspired by the herringbone parquet flooring in the school’s grand rooms.

A soft rubber surface now covers the central space, featuring a Christmas tree stand at its heart. Just like in a traditional living room.

This flexible courtyard serves as a meeting place, a stage for school assemblies, and a celebration space for graduations.

“The pattern has become a symbol of the school on social media. It’s exciting to see how the students have embraced and expanded on our creativity.”

Dining in rooms, not halls

With no large open space available, the school restaurant was spread across multiple rooms. What started as a necessity became an advantage, creating a quieter, more pleasant dining experience.

Each room has its own lighting and atmosphere, with some playing music, allowing students to find their preferred spot. Furnished for both small and large groups, the restaurant also functions as a study area outside lunchtime.

Dividing the dining area into smaller rooms should be standard in schools. It significantly improves the acoustic environment.

A debated but forward-thinking design

Since the school has no sports hall, students use nearby sports facilities. However, the basement features yoga rooms, a gym, and gender-neutral changing rooms. Here, students change and shower in individual booths, with lockers positioned outside. An inclusive design that sparked debate when first introduced.

“This was likely one of the first gender-neutral changing rooms. Today, it’s the norm. At the time, it caused controversy in local media.”

Given that changing rooms are a common site for school bullying, these enclosed shower booths were designed to prevent any form of invasive photography, with doors sealed from floor to ceiling.

“Ironically, when the building was first constructed, strict gender separation was the norm—many original floor plans include rooms labelled ‘female assistant.’”

“A proud building for proud students. Allowing young people to access this space is fantastic. Public architecture should serve the public. A respectful adaptation of a robust structure, executed with remarkable precision.”

Jury citation, Stockholm Building of the Year 2019

Anna Whitlock’s – a celebrated and accessible school

Throughout the renovation, many original features were restored, including the limestone staircase in the main entrance. The building was carefully adapted for accessibility while preserving its historical character.

“We were fortunate to work with bold clients who had a high level of ambition and deep respect for the building’s heritage,” says Amanda.

In 2019, Stockholm named Anna Whitlock’s Upper Secondary School Building of the Year. Today, it plays a vital role in Kungsholmen’s vibrant city life.