Natur och kultur
The headquarters of Natur & Kultur on Karlavägen 31 in Stockholm is an architectural landmark, designed by Sven Markelius for Skogsindustrierna in 1959.
- Client
- Natur och Kultur
- Location
- Stockholm
- Project start
- 2022
- Project complete
- 2024
- Photographer
- Per Kristiansen / Natur och Kultur
Over the years, the building had lost much of its original character due to successive renovations, while no longer meeting modern requirements for workplace functionality and flexibility. Through an extensive renovation and redevelopment, Studio Stockholm has had the privilege of addressing the building in its entirety, acting as both architects and interior architects to restore its original identity while adapting it to meet future needs.
The result is a modern workplace where the iconic 1950s design language harmonizes with today’s functional and technical demands. A new internal staircase now connects the floors, promoting collaboration and interaction between the publisher’s various departments. The impressive Markelius Hall has regained its former glory and is complemented by a new representative floor featuring a dining/event space and a boardroom. The building is not just a place for work, but a living extension of Natur & Kultur’s identity and values.
Challenge
- A highly compressed timeline, starting in October 2022 with a completion deadline of June 2024, including both move-out and move-in phases.
- Previous analyses had to be revised to create a clearer strategic direction and quickly establish trust with the client.
- The building’s introverted structure and a long-standing tradition of individual offices required careful consideration and communication to transition towards more open layouts.
Process
- Studio Stockholm initiated a strategic reset, revising previous analyses and supplementing them with interviews to define a clearer project vision.
- The design process carefully balanced Markelius’ architectural legacy with modern requirements for functionality and flexibility.
- The programming and layout underwent significant revisions to align with Natur & Kultur’s operations, ensuring the building supports both contemporary and future workplace needs.
Result
- The project has resulted in a revitalized office building that once again embodies its architectural heritage.
- The redevelopment has provided Natur & Kultur with a more modern and efficient workplace that better supports its operations from a work environment perspective.
- Additionally, the project has increased the property’s value, with space now freed up for potential leasing to external tenants.
