The Spirit Factory

More than Half of the Brickwork is Reused

This transformation represents a central act of reuse, delivering significant benefits in terms of climate impact, resource efficiency, and waste reduction. Turning and examining every single brick, and designing subtle extensions that harmonise with the existing structures, is a complex task that demands a high level of precision. Without compromising the original architecture, the buildings must meet today’s standards for daylight, acoustics, and ventilation. This has required close collaboration with the client, structural engineer, heritage specialist, suppliers, and sustainability experts.

We have been careful to preserve as much as possible of the existing buildings—far beyond what the heritage classification requires. All existing façades are retained, the cast-iron windows have been restored, and more than half of the bricks used in the extensions have been reclaimed from the site itself. In a carefully controlled process, the bricks were dismantled, cleaned, inspected, and then reinstated in their new positions. In total, around 200,000 bricks have been reused from the site.

Design with Respect for History

Large-scale reuse is not only about salvaging materials on site—it also requires deep knowledge of architectural principles and an ability to adapt them to the conditions of transformation. Only then can a cohesive and feasible project emerge.

The existing buildings have strongly influenced the design of the new parts. Most extensions are clad in brick, laid in a pattern inspired by the richly detailed façades of the early 20th century, while details are executed in cast iron, wrought steel, and corten. Great attention has been paid to creating an architectural unity where variations in scale and height bring life to the block and offer beautiful views. The courtyard and spaces between the buildings form new social meeting places. All buildings also have entrances from both the street and the courtyard, encouraging natural movement through and within the site.

The apartments range from one to four rooms and a kitchen, with one exception. At the top of the office building lies a spacious 160-square-meter apartment with windows on three sides and stunning views. The site also features three townhouses, which, along with the apartments, provide homes for everyone—from singles to large families.

The Spirit Factory was awarded Renovation of the Year 2025 by Sveriges Allmännytta and was a finalist for Residential Project of the Year 2025 by Hemnet.