Ekstaden

From industry to community

Urban Development

Housing, Infrastructure, Plan & programs

Client: Hellasvägen Invest AB through Daniel Svensson at Energy Service Management

Location: Höör, Skåne

Assignment years: 2019-2020

Phase: Ongoing

Collaborators: Oevis

Imagine designing an entire neighbourhood around a single oak tree — and naming it after that tree. That’s exactly the vision for Ekstaden, a new district in Höör, Skåne. Tengbom has developed a proposal that transforms an industrial area into a thriving residential community.

Ekstaden creates a small-scale, dense, and green neighborhood where social sustainability holds high importance. The street space and other public areas support walking, play, and relaxation through thoughtful design.

Once a hub for metalworking industries, the Hällbo area is transforming into a vibrant part of Höör, with social sustainability at its core. The district’s varied small-town character will feature open green spaces and intimate streets, encouraging interaction, strolls, and play.

“Children should be able to kick a ball just outside their door. Here, you can enjoy small-town life without moving to a suburban villa.”

Anders Nilsson, Urban planner

In the heart of Ekstaden, a green and leafy urban park sits at the center of a pedestrian-friendly strip with residential entrances and commercial spaces. In the southern section, townhouses with small outdoor areas line the park, allowing residents to step directly into the greenery. This thoughtful framing creates a secure and vibrant atmosphere. Illustration: Olof Eriksson, Oevis.

Small-town charm in every detail

The design of Ekstaden draws inspiration from central Höör, ensuring it feels like a natural extension of the surrounding landscape. Existing streets and pathways will seamlessly continue into the new district, leading to inviting public spaces and green areas.

To maintain a human-scale environment, buildings will range from two to four storeys, with the top floors set back to create a softer skyline. Historic trees are carefully integrated into the design, enhancing the district’s leafy character. With its proximity to the historic Gästis area and the Kolljungabäcken stream, Ekstaden is more than just built around an oak — it extends and enriches the region’s cultural and natural heritage.