herzog & de meuron to transform stockholm's gasklockan district

a high profile team comprising herzog & de meuron, piet oudolf, and LOLA landscape architects has been selected to transform part of stockholm’s norra djurgårdsstaden district. the region is home to a number of industrial gasometer buildings, which are no longer in use. the project see the removal of one of these structures, to be replaced with a 90 meter-tall residential tower designed by swiss firm herzog & de meuron. the high-rise will have a café, a spa, offices, and a kindergarten on its ground floor, while a new culture center will be established near the site’s existing brick buildings.

a 90 meter-tall residential tower has been designed by herzog & de meuron
image © herzog & de meuron (also main image)

the area surrounding the herzog & de meuron-designed structure will be landscaped by piet oudolf and LOLA landscape architects. the two firms, who have worked together before, will transform the industrial site — named ‘gasklockan’ — into an open and inviting setting for both residents and visitors. ‘the landscape design aims to give the gasometers a common natural ground as well as to add a member to the family: a beautiful meadow garden flanked by a stretched sun bench of 88 meters,’ says LOLA. ‘together with a plaza between the buildings and a serpentine walk connecting to the surrounding nature it forms the core of the design.’

the industrial site will be transformed into an inviting setting for both residents and visitors
image by IMG+, courtesy of LOLA landscape architects

the landscape design seeks to establish a close relationship between the urban dweller and nature. a strong emphasis has been placed on creating a natural environment that is both accessible and attractive throughout the year. ‘the landscape seeks to promote peoples consciousness of the value of nature,’ continues LOLA. the project is being developed by oscar properties, and has a targeted completion scheduled for 2021.

the natural environment will be both accessible and attractive throughout the year
image by IMG+, courtesy of LOLA landscape architects

‘our projects do not end at the gable of the house,’ says oscar engelbert, founder and CEO of oscar properties. ‘we are placing more and more focus on the development of the areas surrounding our housing projects, where the landscape and environment constitute an important part. piet oudolf has been at the top of our list for many years, he is a true artist when it comes to landscape design.’

the project is scheduled to complete by 2021
image by IMG+, courtesy of LOLA landscape architects