The urban development Nya Hovås in Gothenburg.
The voice of architecture Stockholm-based architecture firm Utopia Arkitekter has no humble ambition. The mission statement is clear since the beginning: to create a better society. CEO Emma Jonsteg raises awareness of current challenges such as climate change, housing shortage and immigration – and is now considered the most powerful voice in Swedish architecture. By Malin Norman | Photos: Utopia Arkitekter
Set up in 2008 by Emma Jonsteg and Mattias Litström, Utopia’s goal is to increase positive values and social sustainability through a long-term approach and high-quality architectural designs – not only for homes and offices but also in landscapes and urban developments. This is made possible through a close dialogue with stakeholders, careful analysis of requirements and the use of experts from a wide range of fields, and ultimately by adding architectural value to the sites. “Our projects raise some important questions,” says co-founder and CEO 90 | Issue 93 | October 2016
Jonsteg. “In our proposed designs, we provide architectural solutions such as integrated sustainability and use of public green spaces, as well as an added local and contemporary touch. By doing so, we can also help to strengthen the identity of the area.”
Trio in originality Utopia’s innovative ideas receive plenty of attention. Shimmering like a diamond, new project Juvelen (‘The Jewel’) is Utopia’s winning proposal for a new landmark building in Uppsala. The project has been developed in cooperation with Skanska with the goal to create the
most sustainable office building in the Nordic countries, energy self-sufficient thanks to solar cells and wind power. In addition to its long-term environmental objectives, Juvelen will also function as an exciting meeting place and an eyecatching, sparkling entrance to the city. The 10,000-square-metre building is due for completion in 2018. Another gem is Hornsbruksgatan in the Södermalm borough of Stockholm, a new housing development on assignment by Veidekke Bostad. The proposed plan includes three buildings, consisting of both apartments and town houses. The roof of the two and three-level red brick buildings will house an extension of the nearby public park, creating a truly unique solution not only by Stockholm standard but also internationally. Söderkåkar is another exciting new housing project, this on assignment by