Archives

Ämbetsbyggnaden Gamla Hovrätten

Court out, school in
Architecture, Cultural Heritage, Landscape
Accessibility, Building Preservation & Restoration, Education, Parks, Play & Public Spaces
Client: Statens fastighetsverk
Location: Jönköping
Photographer: Tengbom
Heritage consultant: Anders Franzén, Länsmuseet
Awards: Category winner in Good building conservation, Jönköping Urban Design Award 2025

Once a closed government building in central Jönköping. Today a modern upper secondary school with architectural traces from the 1870s. So how do you avoid conflicts between contemporary technical requirements and historical values? Ämbetsbyggnaden has the answer.

When the Göta Court of Appeal and the National Courts Administration moved out, the culturally significant 19th-century building stood ready for new chapters. The ambition was clear: without erasing the building’s identity, it would be transformed into an upper secondary school. The formerly enclosed office and archive environment would become an open setting for teaching, activity and shared spaces. Naturally, with high demands for functionality, accessibility and a well-functioning everyday environment for students and teachers.

With great anticipation, we embraced the challenge.

Preserve as far as possible!

Ämbetsbyggnaden’s character as a “house in park” guided the entire process for both our architects and landscape architects. The exterior was preserved as far as possible, while necessary additions were made to ensure safe access for all. A ramp, new stairways and evacuation solutions were carefully designed to merge with the façade and feel inherent to the site.

House in park

Inside, visitors encounter interiors bearing traces of the 1940s renovation. The entrance hall, stairwells and corridors with plastered ceilings and fixed bookshelves have been left untouched. Here, students move between classes in spaces that still tell the story of the building’s former life.

“The starting point was to preserve the exterior as far as possible”, says Gunilla Gustafsson, lead building architect for Statens fastighetsverk at Tengbom in Jönköping. “At the same time, the building must function as a school today, which means making the right interventions in the right places”.

Thoughtful solutions behind the scenes

Transforming a listed building into a school involves numerous considerations. With the school’s — and self-evident — requirement for good air quality, ventilation became one of the greatest challenges. To avoid extensive interventions in floor structures and exposed ductwork, air-handling units were placed in the basement and attic. The building’s solid brick structure contributes to a calm acoustic environment, complemented by carefully integrated acoustic measures.

“There is often a clash between modern technical requirements and historical values”, Gunilla explains. “Our task has been to find solutions that work in everyday use without taking over the rooms.”

The park that returned

Outside the building, the southern part of the site has been transformed and given new significance. Today, Hovrättsparken once again unfolds here, restored with inspiration from how the site appeared around 1870. For students and teachers, the park is an outdoor room for breaks, conversation and study. And for the city, a green space once again accessible to the public.

“The upper secondary school gives generations of students the opportunity to discover the site’s history and use the park in their daily lives. In addition, the former office parking area has been removed and the park restored to its original condition with new tree and shrub plantings”, says Gunilla. The park restoration was carried out by landscape architects Anders Brandstedt and Linda Grimheden at Tengbom in Stockholm.

“A textbook example of restoration and adaptation of a listed building for new use. A careful and highly competent renovation of the Göta Court of Appeal archive building from the 1860s, where the 1940s interior forms an intriguing point of departure for the school’s interior design. The transformation of the park contributes to the urban realm, and the elegant exterior additions have been executed with great respect for the original.”

Jury statement, Jönköping Urban Design Award 2025

Ämbetsbyggnaden winner of the urban design award

The work on Ämbetsbyggnaden demonstrates how a listed building can be adapted to contemporary needs with respect, care and precision. It also shows how architecture can provide young people with an environment that both functions well and feels meaningful to inhabit.

“The positive collaborative climate within the consultant team contributed to the excellent final result, with my colleagues Jakob Ideskog, Saskia Jäkel and Hanna Ernlundh forming the core of the team.”

Ämbetsbyggnaden is certified according to Miljöbyggnad Silver and was category winner in Good building conservation at the Jönköping Urban Design Award 2025.

Contact person

Matt Patterson

+46 36 440 90 81

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Mariedal

Refined conference facility
Architecture, Cultural Heritage, Interior Design
Building Preservation & Restoration, Culture, Hotels & Meetings
Client: Jönköping University & HÖFAB
Location: Jönköping
Project year: 2014–2015
Project type: Conference facility
Developer: Högskolefastigheter i Jönköping AB
Photographer: Patrik Svedberg

On a rise along the eastern shore of Munksjön stands Mariedal – a stately merchant’s villa from the 1850s, today used as a conference facility by Jönköping University. When the time came to refurbish the premises, the ambition was to create an inspiring environment for contemporary needs while carefully preserving and accentuating the building’s historic qualities.

An unpolished gem on historic ground. Högskolefastigheter i Jönköping were fully aware of what they were entrusted with at Munksjön. Mariedal was erected in the 19th century as a country retreat for the merchant Westman and his family. The property is sought after for both its heritage and its location. But time had left its mark, not only through wear, but also through the gradual refurbishments that had taken place over the years, giving the building a patchwork-like character.

When it was once again time for renewal, the intention was to adopt a holistic approach and bring forward the original qualities of the property. Tengbom was commissioned to restore and furnish the premises for modern needs. The assignment presented a challenge, requiring us to adapt the building for accessibility while recreating a classical aesthetic using historic materials and a coherent character.

The goal? To take a firm design approach and, with clear strokes, transform a rather tired and worn interior into a positive experience. We developed many bespoke solutions and also improvised new ones during construction, as the client identified additional needs along the way.

Modern interiors with an aesthetic that looks back

We decided early on to focus on the aesthetic of the period during which the building underwent its most extensive renovation, around 1912. Inspiration was drawn from signatures such as Waldemarsudde and Ellen Key. The rooms were given rich colour palettes and wallpapered with intricate botanical patterns. Based on our colour proposal, Statens konstråd selected appropriate artworks for the interiors. In the hall, for example, hangs an impressionistic oil painting whose expression is heightened by the dark colour scheme.

We gave each room its own character. In the upper salon, calm and cool tones set the mood, with dark blue and plum-coloured textiles. In the kitchen, we painted the walls in terracotta and added a diagonal chequered linoleum floor.

Bespoke details complete the impression

To create the right atmosphere, we designed key pieces like a plant stand, an easel for a digital screen, and a display cabinet with mesh panels. As the project evolved, we added smaller items too — the original candlesticks, waste bins, doorstops and tablecloths didn’t match the concept at all.

Form and function for the future

Sustainability was also a guiding value in the work with Mariedal. In addition to choosing natural materials and eco-labelled furniture, we made a considerable effort to assess what could be reused. We prioritised alterations to prominent public areas and preserved existing building components that were in acceptable condition. From a sustainability perspective, it is not justifiable to remove functioning equipment, ventilation, flooring and similar elements.

One can also speak of sustainability in stylistic terms. Within the university sector, there is neither the budget nor the rationale to continually adopt new design trends. For that reason, we selected products that we believe to be both timeless and functional.

At Mariedal, much of the work centred on refining the old and, with fairly modest means, achieving significant transformation in both aesthetics and functionality.

“We worked closely with the client and the developer throughout the project. It was a creative and exciting process for everyone involved,” says interior architect Ulrika Tjernström.

“Jönköping University had high ambitions for Mariedal but were accustomed to the standard solutions typically used in the university sector. Our interior concept deviated from that, yet they embraced it completely. The developer, in turn, faced the challenge of realising all the crafted details the premises required.”

Tengbom is proud to have contributed to what is hopefully a long refinement process – one that has begun in the remaining historic buildings around the central lake in Jönköping.

Contact person

Matt Patterson

+46 36 440 90 81

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Lund Cathedral

Timelessness in a new guise
Architecture, Cultural Heritage
Building Preservation & Restoration, Culture
Client: Svenska kyrkan
Location: Lund
Completion: 2023
Collaborators: Building contractor: Thage, project management: Mound Consulting, structural engineer: Restaurera
Awards and nominations: Nomination for the Helgo Prize 2023, winner of Årets bygge 2024

With new roofing sheets and extensive masonry repair, Lund Cathedral regained its characteristic tower caps. After a year of work on the ground, both towers were lifted back into place – in a new, more climate-friendly guise. The restoration was nominated for the Helgo Prize 2023.

Photo: Gunnar Menander

When one of the Nordic region’s most visited landmarks required restoration, there were no shortcuts. The work moved in the borderland between tradition and renewal, where every decision was weighed against both history and sustainability. The result is a piece of craftsmanship executed with precision and long-term durability.

“Our hope is that the repair work and restoration, carried out with an eternal perspective, will bring great benefit to the cathedral’s preservation. And to future generations.”

Erik Wikerstål, lead architect

The legacy of Helgo

The restoration honours Helgo Zettervall’s architectural design and the appearance of the tower roofs – even though the lead sheet has now been replaced with a more environmentally conscious tin-coated stainless steel. Yes, Helgo as in the Helgo Prize. In the 19th century, Zettervall carried out an extensive renovation of the cathedral. The Helgo Prize is awarded by the Swedish National Property Board to particularly meritorious restoration projects, and in 1996 Erik Wikerstål of Tengbom received the prize for Alnarp’s barn.

During Zettervall’s restoration in 1860–80, the cathedral’s two towers and west front were rebuilt. The towers were demolished and reconstructed in a form that he believed could have been possible already in the 12th century. The roof structure consisted of steel profiles, pine planks, and three-metre-long cast lead sheets.

Tower roofs in need of renewed care

Problems with the lead sheets arose as early as the beginning of the 20th century. They were large, heavy, and poorly joined. The roofs took in water and needed re-laying – but the new sheets were also too large for the steep roof. Over time, cracks, leaks, rot damage, and rust appeared in the parapet’s embedded iron bars.

After just over 100 years, the tower roofs urgently required new metal cladding and extensive masonry repairs. Lead is also a toxic material that can contaminate water, soil, and air.

“The Cathedral Chapter wanted to do what was necessary to protect our environment for future generations,” says Erik. Purifying the runoff water from Lund Cathedral’s roof would have required a facility whose size and operation were deemed unrealistic.

Traditional in appearance – improved environmentally

Lead has been used as a roofing material since the Middle Ages – beneath the cathedral floor, lead residues have been found showing that the church had a lead roof even before the fire of 1234. To preserve the traditional appearance, a sheet metal resembling lead was therefore chosen, but one far better from an environmental perspective.

The tin-coated stainless steel (Terne-coated Stainless Steel) oxidises and develops a surface that, once aged, resembles lead sheet. Tin-coated sheet metal also has a long historical tradition, similar to galvanised iron plate.

The Cathedral Chapter wanted to do what was necessary to protect our environment for future generations.

Lund Cathedral now with new spires

In March 2022, the two tower roofs were lifted down and placed within a tent structure north of the cathedral. The new cladding was executed with standing seam sheet metal, following the dimensions and seams of traditional lead roofing.

“The finials, or spires, of the tower caps were made from a lead-clad timber and steel construction and were in such poor condition that they had to be newly fabricated,” says Erik.

Photo: Gunnar Menander

The old finials were scanned and exact replicas were produced in sand-cast aluminium – a material that ages in harmony with the tin surface. At the same time, Zettervall’s inner masonry sections in the parapets were chiselled out and replaced with hard-fired brick in cement mortar. The parapet’s natural-stone cornice received new anchoring with stainless-steel clamps, and the tower caps’ rust-damaged fixings were replaced with 52 stainless-steel threaded rods per tower. All were cast into a new concrete structure clad with reused, hand-moulded yellow brick.

The cathedral’s remaining roof surfaces are, for the time being, sealed with wax and nanotechnology while awaiting future re-laying. Lund Cathedral is filled with visitors every day of the year. Well worth a visit to admire these iconic spires.

Photo: Erik Wikerstål

Contact person

Erik Wikerstål

+46 42 19 48 56

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Uppsala City Library

Accessible and in tune with the times
Architecture
Building Preservation & Restoration, Culture
Client: Läromästarens Fastighets AB
Location: Uppsala
Project duration: 2008–2016
Project: Renovation and extension
Area: Approx. 200 sqm extension and 300 sqm renovation
Photographer: Tim Meier

Situated along Uppsala’s popular pedestrian street, lined with shops, cafés, and restaurants, Uppsala City Library is a well-frequented destination. Here lies an important architectural legacy to preserve and respond to — an essential premise throughout the renovation and extension project. The library was originally designed by Carl Nyrén.

Since 2008, Tengbom, through its acquisition of Werket, has served as architect for the library’s continuous evolution. In 2009, the children’s section was renovated and a new program room was added. Meanwhile, the listed wooden structure facing the pedestrian street was refurbished to accommodate a café. The courtyard to the south was also opened up, and a new outdoor seating area was created.

 

New foyer and vibrant meeting place at Uppsala City Library

The library expressed a wish to transform the enclosed courtyard into a welcoming space. A foyer and gathering area for reading magazines, among other uses. The library staff also needed space for lectures and exhibitions. Post-renovation, parts of the library are also available for rental. The extension has enhanced the connection with the open courtyard.

The core aim of the project was to create accessibility within the glass courtyard while respecting the character of the existing buildings. One of the buildings is listed, and the library is a landmark structure in the city (originally designed by Nyrén’s architectural office). The challenge lay in making a visible addition without encroaching upon the existing buildings. Robust natural materials were carefully selected. The glass roof features a screen-printed leaf motif, commemorating a beautiful old tree that unfortunately could not be preserved.

The assignment also included both fixed and loose furnishings. A green color palette was chosen, echoing the greenery that once filled the courtyard.

Contact person

Josefin Larsson

+46 72 183 02 34

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Kroatorpet

Updated coffee gem
Interior Design
Building Preservation & Restoration, Restaurants
Client: Huskvarna Hembygdsförening
Years: 2020-2021
Awards: Diploma for Good Building Conservation, Jönköping Urban Design Prize
Developer and partners: Huskvarna Hembygdsförening & Pålssons Bygg
Photographer: Jansin & Hammarling

Halfway along the E4 motorway between Stockholm and Malmö lies the classic rest stop Kroatorpet, with roots dating back to the 18th century. In a bold initiative by Huskvarna Hembygdsförening, we have updated the building with a new restaurant section, improving both the staff’s work environment and the guest flow.

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.”

Contact person

Matt Patterson

+46 36 440 90 81

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Fyris Cinema

For film lovers and culture enthusiasts
Interior Design
Building Preservation & Restoration, Culture
Client: Uppsala Akademiförvaltning
Location: Uppsala
Year: 2021
Photographer: Tim Meier

Do you remember when you didn’t want to miss the commercials at the cinema? Neither do we – until we stepped into Fyrisbiografen in Uppsala. This cultural treasure, one of Sweden’s oldest and most charming cinemas, was in need of an update. By cleverly reimagining the limited space, we recreated a cinematic environment now ready to once again become a palace of entertainment for the people of Uppsala.

Photo: Ojan, Wikimedia

Fyrisbion is one of Sweden’s oldest cinemas. With roots dating back to 1911, this classic cinema, located in the historic Skandalhuset building, has been an important part of Uppsala’s cultural life for over a century – a timeless symbol for film and culture enthusiasts alike.

Creative play with space

Despite its modest size, we managed to transform Fyrisbion into an inviting and functional meeting place – especially in the small foyer. By installing mirrors in the ceiling angle, visitors are given an illusion of space and light, creating the sense of a larger, more open room. Materials such as oak, stone, and brass were carefully selected to combine durability with timeless aesthetics. The classic paneling is a nostalgic nod to the era when cinemas were true palaces of entertainment.

Accessible film enjoyment

A central part of the renovation was making the cinema more accessible to all visitors. New restrooms and connections to the lift now allow wheelchair users to easily enjoy everything Fyrisbion has to offer. The working environment for staff has also improved through the addition of a new office and kitchenette.

The classic paneling is a nostalgic nod to the era when cinemas were true palaces of entertainment.

From Plengiér’s vision to a modern cultural hub

In 1911, cinema pioneer Hugo Plengiér founded Fyrisbion – a central figure in Uppsala’s early cultural scene. In the 1930s, David Annell took over, shaping the cinema’s profile by screening European films of high artistic quality – a repertoire that stood apart from the larger cinemas. Today, Fyrisbion is run by the non-profit association Föreningen Fyrisbiografen, a member of Folkets Bio. Thanks to dedicated members and volunteers, this venerable cinema continues to offer the people of Uppsala a place for film and cultural experiences.

The renovation of Fyrisbion was about more than preserving the past. We also wanted to create a modern and accessible environment for the film lovers of the future. With respect for history and an eye on what’s to come, Fyrisbion can now continue to shine – as a center for film art and culture in the heart of Uppsala.

Contact person

Josefin Larsson

+46 72 183 02 34

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Attic apartments in Kvarteret Generalen

Designed by Ivar Tengbom
Architecture, Cultural Heritage
Accessibility, Building Preservation & Restoration, Housing, Renovation & Transformation
Client: Bostadsbolaget
Location: Göteborg
Year: 2019-ongoing

As Gothenburg continues to grow, so does the demand for housing. There are many ways to address this, but one sustainable solution is to convert existing buildings. In Kvarteret Generalen, unused attic spaces are being transformed into 24 new apartments — preserving history while creating much-needed homes.

In 2019, the municipal housing company Bostadsbolaget received a tip from its staff about unused attic spaces in one of its properties in Haga. A feasibility study soon confirmed that the high ceilings — reaching up to six or seven metres — could accommodate 24 new apartments, while still leaving room for new attic storage areas.

Since then, twelve loft apartments have been completed on Södra Allégatan, and another twelve are on the way.

Original drawing by Ivar Tengbom.

“The attic space our staff noticed in Haga had impressive ceiling heights. The study showed that we could create 24 apartments while still providing new storage areas in the attic”, says Per Orshammar, Project Manager, Bostadsbolaget

Each apartment is unique in layout and size, ranging from 31 to 35 square metres. All feature an open-plan kitchen and living space. The next phase of the project will begin in 2024, with the final twelve apartments set to be available for rent by 2025–2026.

We’ve had to be creative while showing great respect for the building’s cultural and historical values.

Kvarteret Generalen – a historic landmark

Haga is one of Gothenburg’s oldest districts, known for its cobblestone streets, small squares, and historic buildings. It’s a highly desirable area, but new construction is nearly impossible. Instead, the focus is on adapting existing buildings, as seen in Kvarteret Generalen.

Originally built in 1866 as a children’s hospital, the property was designed by architect Frans Jacob Heilborn. In 1910, four additional stone buildings—ranging from four to six storeys—were added, designed by Ivar Tengbom and Ernst Torulf. Today, Haga’s charm attracts both residents and visitors, blending a vibrant café culture with historic character.

Attic conversions in two phases

The first twelve apartments are now complete, marking the first phase of the project. With the second phase underway, another twelve apartments and additional storage spaces are being created.

“What makes this project particularly exciting is the challenge of preserving and enhancing the original architecture while creating modern homes,” says Helena Elisson, architect at Tengbom.

“We approached the project with a solution-driven mindset—balancing creativity with deep respect for the building’s cultural heritage.”

By preserving Ivar Tengbom’s original architectural vision, we have created new living spaces without compromising the historic integrity. Achieving this required careful material selection and thoughtful design. The project began with a feasibility study and a building permit process to ensure a seamless transformation.

Smart and sustainable solutions

By reusing existing structures, the project reduces environmental impact while creating valuable new homes for Gothenburg residents. Helena emphasises that collaboration with Bostadsbolaget was key to solving challenges within the complex structure of the building, especially in areas like ventilation and chimney placement.

“Together, we explored a variety of solutions. In some apartments, we designed skylights, in others dormer windows,” explains Helena.

“One innovative approach was to install a raised floor, making it easier to route plumbing and ventilation systems. The white interiors and light-stained wooden floors further enhance natural daylight and create a modern feel.”

Transforming the future of housing

The Kvarteret Generalen project demonstrates how historical buildings can be preserved and adapted while contributing to the housing market. By creating 24 new homes within an existing structure, the project showcases a sustainable and innovative response to housing shortages.

“While 24 apartments won’t solve Gothenburg’s housing crisis, it’s a great example of how we can rethink and repurpose existing spaces,” says Helena. “It required technical expertise, creativity, and a deep respect for the building’s historic significance.”

Contact person

Kajsa Crona

+46 727 07 79 73

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Campus Tensta

A historic revival
Tensta 2
Architecture, Cultural Heritage
Building Preservation & Restoration, Renovation & Transformation
Client:
Location: Tensta, Stockholm
Collaborators: Byggprojekt, Seveko, Reichmann antikvarier, Projektel
BTA: 15 000 sqm
Awards and nominations: Nominated for Kasper Salin 2025
Photographer: Felix Gerlach

The former upper secondary school in Tensta, a heritage-listed building of the highest cultural value, is set to reopen as Campus Tensta under the management of Hemsö. Blending late modernism and brutalism with influences from Asian architecture, the school has been carefully restored by Tengbom, with a strong commitment to preserving its original identity.

Tensta 1 Tensta 2

Designed by Gösta Uddén, the school was inaugurated in 1984. Some call it “the last truly grand school built in Sweden”, while others argue it should be designated a listed building. Since 2018, it has stood empty, with rumours of demolition causing concern among both architectural experts and the public. However, Hemsö’s vision is the opposite: the school will be carefully restored, ensuring its architectural integrity remains intact.

Letting go of the ego

“As an architect, there’s always a desire to make your mark on a project. But when working with heritage buildings, you have to set aside your own vision in favour of preserving the original structure,” says Josefin Larsson, architect and business developer at Tengbom, specialising in restoration, cultural history, and adaptive reuse.

Tensta 7 Tensta 3

A cultural restoration detective story

Tengbom has led the extensive renovation, which aims to bring the school back to its original condition while meeting modern requirements for accessibility, acoustics, and fire safety.

“This type of project requires a great deal of creativity. It’s like detective work – less about what you do and more about how you do it.”

Josefin Larsson

That was then. Photograph: Bo Eriksson

Together with Reichmann Antikvarier, Tengbom has mapped and documented the building’s cultural and historical attributes. As an expert in heritage conservation under Swedish planning law, the antiquarian ensures that all modifications comply with strict preservation regulations.

Campus Tensta 9
Tensta 6
Tensta 4

Patterned concrete and pagoda-inspired roofs

The original complex, designed by Uddén, includes the school, the Tensta Träff community centre, a library, and later a sports and swimming hall. Together, these three buildings form a triangle.

The facades feature high-quality materials such as red brick, patterned cast concrete, laminated wood, and black-painted steel. At the heart of the school, a glass-roofed winter garden floods the interior with natural light. Architectural elements include open-air corridors, diagonally protruding staircases, and dramatically curved roofs inspired by Asian pagodas.

Stockholm’s City Museum has classified the school as a “blue-listed” building—the highest level of heritage protection, meaning it is considered an essential part of Sweden’s cultural heritage.

“For Campus Tensta, this means an absolute prohibition against alterations that could compromise the building’s historic character,” explains Josefin.

Thoughtful additions that blend in

Each space within the school has been assessed for its cultural significance. Architecturally valuable areas are marked as “rooms of special character,” allowing only minimal changes. Other spaces, such as classrooms and restrooms, are being renovated to meet modern standards while preserving the original design.

Tensta 10Campus Tensta’s classrooms are being upgraded with new acoustics, lighting, and accessibility features. Suspended ceilings are being replaced, and all restrooms will receive new tiles, sinks, and toilets. However, in areas such as corridors and the winter garden, everything is being restored to its original state.

“The principle behind the renovation is gentle transformation—we work with the building’s original logic,” says Josefin. “Any additions should blend in rather than stand out, and we prioritise reusing materials whenever possible. New technical systems will be discreetly integrated, and interventions will be minimal yet highly functional.”

Tensta 11 Tensta 8Campus Tensta – reviving the original vision

In 2021, Hemsö acquired both the school and the Tensta Träff community centre. The goal was to create Campus Tensta, a space where education and culture come together.

Tensta 12Their vision is to bring together secondary and adult education, higher education, cultural initiatives, and entrepreneurial ventures under one roof.

“We are truly excited to bring life back to these incredible buildings. Our goal is for Campus Tensta to enrich both the local community and Stockholm as a whole – contributing to education, culture, and creativity,” says Johan Einarsson, project developer at Hemsö.

The first step begins in autumn 2024, when Järva Gymnasium moves in. The newly established foundation-based upper secondary school will mark the start of a new era for Campus Tensta.

Contact person

Josefin Larsson

+46 72 183 02 34

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Frälsningsarmén

A cultural heritage mystery
Architecture, Cultural Heritage
Accessibility, Building Preservation & Restoration, Culture, Renovation & Transformation
Client:
Entrepreneur: Construction company Viktor Hanson
Location: Sankt Göransgatan 61 Stockholm
Assignment years: 2016-2019
LOA: 900 sqm
Collaborators: Tyréns, Acoustic Environment, BK Calculation Consultants, Fire Protection Team, Storköksbyrån, VVS-Kompetens, ÅF, COWI

Frälsningsarmén’s heritage-listed building on Kungsholmen, Stockholm, was in need of both restoration and modernisation. Through a careful balance of reuse and reconstruction, the goal was to preserve its identity while adapting it for today’s needs. But first, one crucial question had to be answered: what lay hidden behind the walls?

A building waiting to be rediscovered

Hantverkaren 18, home to Frälsningsarmén’s 6th Corps, was built in 1911. Over the years, the organisation’s needs had changed, yet the facilities had not kept pace. The kitchen was too small, the lighting inadequate, and the overall wear and tear significant. The work environment needed improvement, and the building required a comprehensive restoration that honoured its past while supporting its future.

With a guiding principle of “preserve and adapt,” the renovation focused on enhancing both function and aesthetics while maintaining the building’s historical character.

A space for many purposes

The updated facility needed to accommodate a variety of functions, including:

  • A flexible assembly hall with a balcony for worship services and large gatherings
  • Meeting rooms, corridors, kitchens, storage, showers, and changing rooms
  • A multifunctional dining room, central to Frälsningsarmén’s mission, where meals are served to those in need

“Buildings are living organisms, shaped by the people who use them. Restoration is never static. It is dynamic, with history and humanity at its core.”

Marco Ercole, Architect

Photo: Sten Jansin

Messages from the past

To uncover the building’s true identity, we had to look back. The investigative phase, known as anamnèsis, the Greek word for “recollection” — guided every decision. The team studied oral histories, archival drawings, historical documents, and photographs, combining historical research with insights from Frälsningsarmén’s staff.

Photo: Sten Jansin

Then, the team conducted a physical investigation — scraping paint layers, uncovering hidden spaces, and evaluating what could be restored, reused, or reconstructed. During the process, they discovered hidden doors, which were carefully repaired and reinstated. Long-buried wood paneling was uncovered and restored, while paint analysis informed a subtle, historically inspired colour scheme. Sealed-off skylights were reopened, allowing natural light to once again fill the dining hall. Additionally, the checkerboard-patterned linoleum flooring was replaced, bringing back the original wooden design.

We reopened the skylights in the dining hall to let light into the premises. Photo: Sten Jansin.

Time, knowledge, and respect

Restoring a 100-year-old building requires more than just technical expertise, it demands patience, precision, and deep respect for history.

By carefully weaving Frälsningsarmén’s legacy into the present, we ensured that its mission, history, and identity remain visible and meaningful for generations to come.

Photo: Stadsmuseet

Contact person

Lina Swanberg

+46 8 412 53 36

Related

Sundbyberg water tower

A well-preserved Tengbom classic
Architecture
Building Preservation & Restoration, Culture
Client: Sunbybergs stad
Location: Sundbyberg
Project type: Restoration, Reconstruction
Assignment years: 1912, 2009–2010

Our founder, Ivar Tengbom, designed the Sundbyberg Water Tower, which was completed in 1912. This early concrete structure is fully clad in Helsingborg brick, featuring cross-bond patterns and bold ornamentation that reflect the national romantic ideals of the time. Nearly a century later, in 2009, we took on the challenge of adapting the tower for public use, bringing new life to a landmark that had long stood without a clear function.

Sundbyberg water tower is remarkably well-preserved and holds great architectural and historical value. It is a prime example of the utility and industrial buildings constructed around the turn of the 20th century.

As Sundbyberg’s most iconic landmark, its distinctive, monumental character remains a striking presence in the cityscape. When it was first built in 1912, the tower stood as a symbol of Sundbyberg’s rapid modernisation.

Photo: Sten Jansin

Sundbyberg’s most important landmark

A careful transformation

The renovation respected the building’s cultural heritage, using historically accurate materials and methods.

Photo: Sten Jansin

Externally, the design team preserved the tower’s original silhouette by making only minimal changes. Inside, they carefully maintained the original layout and built-in features. They meticulously cleaned and repainted the grand wooden staircase, all windows, and other carpentry details with linseed oil paint in their original colour. Additionally, they designed and crafted a new entrance door to match the original design.

Today, parts of the tower serve the public, now housing a café and exhibition spaces.

A breathtaking view from Sundbyberg’s water tower

If you haven’t visited yet, we highly recommend stopping by for a bite to eat, stunning architecture, and a panoramic view over Sundbyberg from the top of Tornparken.

If you share our passion for restoration and heritage conservation, we invite you to explore more of our work. Take a look at some of our other projects [HERE].

Contact person

Lina Swanberg

+46 8 412 53 36

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