A catalyst for change

The first of its kind, atrIum LJungBerg has announced plans for building the world’s largest ‘wooden city’, with the help of Scandinavian practices, hennIng Larsen and WhIte arkItekter. Situated south of Stockholm in Sickla, the 60-acre project will feature 2,000 homes and three times as many office spaces, not only expanding Sweden’s economy but also offering a solution to the workspace deficit in the capital.

“StockholM Wood city manifests our future,” explains CEO of Atrium Ljungberg, annIca Ånäs. “From tenants there is a strong demand for innovative, sustainable solutions – a demand that we meet with this initiative.” The impending work is backed by numerous research studies, all of which show wooden buildings improve air quality, reduce stress, increase productivity and store carbon dioxide – making it a healthier material alternative for both people and the planet.

By investing in resource-efficient construction methods and circular material flows, Atrium Ljungberg is striving to change the role of the urban developer. At Wood City, rooftop solar arrays and underground borehole energy storage will contribute towards heating and cooling requirements. With wood also being a plentiful resource in Sweden, the timber used will be sourced nearby.

Reducing emissions even further, Henning Larsen and White Arkitekter plan to position employment centres, residences and retail within a five-minute radius across the district, eliminating lengthy commutes. Restaurants, stores and public spaces are also in the works. From a design perspective, all façades will mesh with existing brick buildings, many of which were former industrial spaces.

Stockholm Wood City will commence in two years’ time with completion of the first buildings expected in 2027.