Prästhöjden Senior Housing

At Tengbom, we often say that a successful project results from good collaboration where architects are involved every step of the way. That was certainly the case with Prästhöjden. From the drawing board to follow-up, we worked hand-in-hand with Fristadbostäder AB, a client as passionate as we are about long-lasting design and cost-effective property management achieved through well-chosen materials.

The result: just as we imagined

“Taking a long-term perspective is highly beneficial for us,” says Kjell-Ove Sethson, CEO of Fristadbostäder AB. “By focusing on lifecycle costs instead of fixating on construction costs, Prästhöjden will generate economic benefits for generations to come.”

Magnus Almung, the project’s lead architect, adds:

“It’s rare in Sweden to be both the architect and the project leader, from sketching the initial lines to preparing tender documents and construction plans, attending every site meeting, and overseeing the entire process. But in this case, I was involved in every phase, and the result is a building I am especially proud of—a building that turned out exactly as I envisioned.”

For quality of life and community

The building features three stories, a centrally located glass stairwell, and a terraced floor on one side. The apartments are high-quality, with bright interiors, large windows that let in ample natural light, and solid ash parquet flooring. Kitchens are functional and well-equipped, and each unit includes a balcony or patio. Accessibility is a priority, with ample space for walkers. The top floor offers communal spaces to encourage interaction between neighbors, including a rooftop terrace for sunny days. Residents enjoy proximity to nature, essential services, and excellent outdoor areas for families and visiting children to gather.

Sustainable craftsmanship and smart energy

Prästhöjden is designed and built to stand the test of time, with massive wooden frames supporting the structure and a facade painted in classic Swedish Falu red. The property is energy-efficient, with optimized energy use and solar panels on the roof. Both material choices and functionalities were carefully selected to ensure longevity.

“Our approach was to design a building that blends with its surroundings and preserves as much of the natural landscape as possible.”

Magnus Almung

Following the principle of “the right material in the right place,” the design places the concrete structure underground in the terraced floor, while the above-ground sections use wood. Sustainability and environmental considerations drove the extensive use of wood, not just for structure but also as a key aesthetic feature. Exposed wood adds character to the apartments, stairwells, entrances, and facade.

“We aimed to create a functional building that’s also rich in beautiful materials and detailed craftsmanship,” Magnus continues. “Even the construction workers appreciated building something that stands out from standard prefab projects, which is evident in the final result.”

“Wood through and through”

The team selected a simple half-lapped spruce panel to create a harmonious yet varied facade. They mounted a specially milled 50-mm deep cover strip on alternating joints. For the bottom floor, a smooth finish provides a well-proportioned base for the facade. Fire sprinklers throughout the building make it possible to have exposed wood interiors and a fully wooden facade.

“This gave us great freedom to design the building around our concept, ‘Wood through and through,’” says Magnus.

However, as Magnus emphasizes, this is no “showy” house. It is a kind, sustainable home of thoughtful architecture, high quality, and practical functionality.

“We are proud and delighted with the overwhelmingly positive feedback from our satisfied tenants,” concludes Kjell-Ove Sethson.

Ulf Celander took the images in the gallery.

Prästhöjden senior living received a nomination for Construction Project of the Year in 2023. In 2024, Public Housing recognized it as a contender for Best Building, along with a nomination for the Red Paint Prize (Rödfärgspriset).