Bruksgården in Höganäs, Sweden by Petra Gipp Arkitektur

Located in an industrial Swedish town famed for its ceramic production, Petra Gipp Architects’ (PGA) Bruksgården project is a testament to the nature of industry past, present and future. Transforming the lavish yet aged factory manager’s residence, PGA transformed this heritage-listed beauty into a new office for Lindéngruppen. Specialising in the long-term development of industrial companies, it’s only fitting that their new offices express narrative through a delicate composition of form and materiality. Always driving Bruksgården’s architectural x-factor beautifully beyond its heritage constraints.

Composed of three distinct forms, Bruksgården creates a journey from old to new. Internally renovated, the existing building represents the past whilst a floating white box containing the new office space represents the present and future. Connecting the two is a form inspired by the traditional building typology called the ‘longhouse’. Combining a pitched roof, charcoal coloured brick and cast concrete, this third form appears to rise out of its context like a vertical extension of the cobbled pathways that surround it. Loving the representation and respect given to context.

Furthermore, PGA have used timber to delicately emphasise key elements of the building. From the internal window frames, to the external paneling, to the sculptural stair, timber offsets the building’s otherwise cool material palette and creates a sense of warmth throughout.

Along this curated journey, a narrative-based art collection mimics the formal composition of the building and its tactile and sculptural materiality. Also dissolving the divide between interior and exterior, the collection extends into a beautifully landscaped courtyard, engaging the broader city block and showcasing this re-vamped historic building to the public.

Architectural gems like this should never been hidden away. Total respect.