A historical jewel
Bobergstorget public square
The gasworks at Stockholm Royal Seaport supplied energy for heating, lighting and cooking to the population around Stockholm for a more than a century. Now it is a vibrant cultural centre, situated in a preserved industrial environment.
Facts about the project
Client
City of Stockholm
Place
Stockholm, Sweden
Status
Completed
Photographer
Jan Lipka
Gasverket at Stockholm Royal Seaport – a piece of industrial history
Since the 1970s, the City of Stockholm has considered how Gasverket, the old gasworks area situated at Stockholm Royal Seaport and adjacent to the Royal National City Park, could be utilised to meet the future needs of residents and visitors. Gas production finally ceased in 2011, leaving the industrial area abandoned – but with enormous potential. Within the space of a decade, Gasverket went from being closed off to the public, to being a local centre and visitor destination, in a preserved industrial environment.
Architectural heritage area
The buildings at Gasverket mostly date from the end of the 19th century and the architect behind the most significant buildings in the area Ferdinand Boberg, gave his name to the square, Bobergstorget. Gasverket is 15,000 m2 in total and has a collection of around 30 different units, the most prominent of which are the two cylindrical gasometers: 50 metres high and with a diameter of 50 metres. Connecting the entire area is the restored overhead line that marks the production line from manufacturing to storage. The whole area is a piece of industrial history where large parts of the district are reused, retaining their unique character.
The heart of the area
Bobergstorget is the central point and the largest public space, connecting streets and alleys. Inaugurated in May 2022, the square is paved with a decorative brick that reflects the history of the area. There are also long benches with tables and a water mirror.
Large volumes of stone were salvaged in connection with the remediation and could be reassembled. In this way, the need for quarrying new stone and its transportation was radically reduced.
Pattern inspired by textiles
Bobergstorget has brick covering that relates to the material used in most buildings in the area. The brick has been laid out in a clear pattern inspired by modern textiles and is complemented by sturdy outdoor furniture, for general use. Gasverket is a fine example of how an industrial heritage area can be transformed, while preserving historical values.