The city of Landskrona is known for its thriving roundabouts. Here they want to give visitors a beauty experience when they meet the city from the entrance streets. As one of the host cities for SM-week 2018, the city wants to create a modern and innovative summer flower planting in Kuskahusrondellen. Caroline Lindqvist and Ylva Petersson, landscape architects at FOJAB, have therefore been commissioned to design the planting for the SM Week.

Tell us about the design, how did you think about it?
We wanted to create an interesting and detailed planting that feels modern, which is also in line with Landskrona's ambition. The plantation has been designed with bands of plants in different heights and colors that create a living wave movement when you drive around the plantation. Flowers with vertical spires contrast with flowers with a more horizontal growth pattern. The framework consists of plants in blue and yellow that flirt with the SM-week logo. Summer flowers have been supplemented with ornamental grass that waves in the wind and reinforces the movement of the planting.

The existing ash trees in the middle of the planting create an airy middle layer that provides visibility through the roundabout and highlights both the trees and the planting. The tree trunks are also proposed to be illuminated in alternating yellow and blue to create an exciting effect in the evening.

When can we enjoy the thriving roundabout?
SM Week starts on July 2, so the planting should be in place by then!

For further information:
Caroline Lindqvist
caroline.lindqvist@fojab.se
+46 724 – 02 21 66

Press:
Emma Schöön
emma.schoon@fojab.se
+46 702 – 49 11 57

MIPIM - Europe's leading real estate and investment fair is held annually in Cannes. An important arena for the industry and FOJAB participates for the 8th year in a row.

We look forward to rewarding seminars, meetings and discussions and to networking with industry players.

Those going from FOJAB are Daniel Nord, Magdalena Hedman, Kjell Adamsson, Joachim Lundqvist, Jens Larsson, Mattias Hedberg-Ek, Karin Fagerberg, Stefan Johansson.

We will be there on March 13-16. Please contact us for a meeting!

Daniel Nord, architect SAR/MSA, CEO,
daniel.nord@fojab.se
0706 – 87 88 82

Joachim Lundqvist, Architect SAR/MSA, Head of Architecture
joachim.lundquist@fojab.se
0705 – 90 24 18

Jens Larsson, Architect SAR/MSA, Office Manager Stockholm
jens.larsson@fojab.se
0761 – 65 61 63

Karin Fagerberg, Architect SAR/MSA, Operations Manager & Office Manager Skåne
karin.fagerberg@fojab.se
0705 – 27 46 15

Kjell Adamsson, Architect SAR/MSA, Business Development Manager & Deputy CEO
kjell.adamsson@fojab.se
0708 – 83 80 82

Magdalena Hedman, Landscape Architect & Marketing Coordinator
magdalena.hedman@fojab.se
0708 – 47 05 50

Mattias Hedberg-Ek, Architect SAR/MSA, Head of Mission
mattias.hedberg-ek@fojab.se
0702 – 18 43 32

Stefan Johansson, Architect SAR/MSA, Creative Leader
stefan.johansson@fojab.se
0706 – 64 23 02

Small-scale and beautiful housing with a focus on greenery and good quality of life. FOJAB is designing housing on the Mässhaken 1 site in Pålsjö, Helsingborg, together with Åstorps Byggnads AB after winning an announced land allocation competition.

The plan area is located between two beautiful green areas about three kilometers north of Helsingborg city center with proximity to Mariastaden, Pålsjö forest and Pålsjö cemetery.

The proposal is based on the lush green area where the attractive view and evening light in the west has been a focus in the design. The goal has been to create small-scale housing with good qualities that offer both private and communal patios.

- We believe in a small scale with a good quality of life where the residents feel a strong sense of neighborliness and community, but still have the opportunity to retreat to their private zone. Here we have captured key words in the city's quality of life program that we have worked into our proposal," says Rebecca Saaby Mehlum, responsible architect.

The residential building is a white plastered stone house with a total of 12 condominiums, including 4 ground floor apartments and 8 townhouses on 2.5 levels. The white plaster creates a calm base where green gardens and wooden bars surround the building, thus linking it to the surrounding green areas. Towards the street, a common garden is built for the residents, which creates a pleasant green reception on arrival.

- A community garden creates a strong sense of belonging to the neighborhood and a meeting place where people can play and socialize. Here we want to encourage initiatives and activities by working with simple elements such as a place to set a long table, a fire pit, grow boxes, and a lawn for kubbing," concludes Rebecca.

The FOJAB working group consists of Rebecca Saaby Mehlum, Staffan Premmert and Jennie Tyrberg.

The Sabbatsberg 24 property is located in one of Stockholm's most central locations along Torsgatan. Until March 2016, the property was used as Stockholm Vatten's head office. The building was designed by architect Ferdinand Boberg and was completed in 1906 as an administration building for the Gasworks, which was later transferred to Stockholm Vatten.

Castellum acquired the property in spring 2017 and the ambition is to develop Torsgatan 26 into a completely new meeting place in Stockholm, a destination with international appeal in a unique environment where historical values meet modern innovation.

FOJAB arkitekter has been involved in the acquisition process and is now working on concept work, program and system documents, tenant sketches, etc.

- It is an incredibly exciting project with a high level of ambition. The building is built in the Art Nouveau style with fantastically well-preserved details. The focus is therefore on refining and highlighting the qualities of the property and looking at its history and origin. To support the project, we are collaborating with a building antiquarian," says Jens Larsson, the architect in charge of the project.

The property will contain premises grouped around several public courtyards. The idea is that the block will be opened up towards Torsgatan to make the new courtyards accessible to visitors and businesses. New fantastic places will be created in this historically valuable environment.

Read more

FOJAB continues to develop its business. As of January 1, 2018, the ownership group was strengthened with eight new partners.

The following employees are new partners: Andreas Jentsch, Anna Belfrage, Elise Lindahl, Eva Ocklund, Ida Stavenow, Magnus Lundström, Niklas Sonestad, Petra Jenning.

- The new partners have qualifications to develop the company and a broad competence that is highly appreciated, both internally and by customers. We are very pleased that they are now entering as partners," says Daniel Nord, CEO of FOJAB.

FOJAB is one of Sweden's leading architectural firms with around 160 employees and offices in Malmö, Stockholm and Helsingborg. Our business is based on place, people and form where strong ideas form the basis for our creative processes.

Andreas Jentsch, architect SAR/MSA, Dipl.-Ing is educated at Bauhaus University in Weimar and Chalmers in Gothenburg. Andreas is deputy studio manager and works mainly with knowledge and office environments. Andreas' projects include the Mobilia shopping and district center in Malmö (urban development award 2014), Axis offices in Lund and the Kung Oskar office building in Lund.

Anna Belfrage, architect SAR/MSA, trained at the LTH School of Architecture in Lund and ETSAM in Madrid. Anna has international experience and works mainly with real estate development, interior design and office projects. Some selected projects are the development of Sperlingens backe at Stureplan, Sanofi Pasteur MSD and Bluefish Pharmaceuticals Stockholm office and Brio's headquarters in Malmö.

Eva Ocklund, architect SAR/MSA trained at the LTH School of Architecture in Lund. Eva is a studio manager at the Stockholm office and has worked with housing for the past ten years. She is responsible for the housing project Tegelbränneriet in Uppsala and Magnoliatomten in Sköndal.

Elise Lindahl, architect SAR/MSA trained at LTH School of Architecture in Lund and AHO School of Architecture and Design in Oslo. In her role as Deputy Studio Manager at FOJAB, Elise is involved in the development of the Office and Mobility business areas. She works mainly with real estate development and transformation projects such as S:t Larsparken in Lund, Reimersdal in Lund and Högvakten in Malmö.

Ida Stavenow, architect SAR/MSA trained at the LTH School of Architecture in Lund. Ida is deputy studio manager and works with housing issues at FOJAB. Ida has been involved in housing projects such as Torrdockan in Malmö, Arkivet in Lund, Hyllie Boulevard in Malmö and the wooden house project Trummens strand in Växjö.

Magnus Lundström, architect SAR/MSA educated at Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg. Magnus has extensive experience of urban development projects both in Sweden and internationally. Magnus has, among other things, been responsible for the development of the new district Sigtuna Stadsängar, the structural plan for the densification of central Nacka and the in-depth master plan for the district Knytta in Östersund.

Niklas Sonestad, architect SAR/MSA trained at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts School of Architecture in Copenhagen.
Niklas works mainly with residential and office projects and is responsible for the office building Isblocket in Hyllie, Axis offices in Lund and the wooden house project Trummens strand in Växjö.

Petra Jenning, architect SAR/MSA is educated at the LTH School of Architecture in Lund. Petra is an internationally recognized expert in computational design and responsible for FOJABcode, a development platform for new methods and models in digital design at FOJAB.

In the middle of the bustling city of Kunming, in southern China, there is a meeting place between East and West. Since 2000, TCG Nordica, a Scandinavian-Chinese cultural center with the goal of creating an opportunity for experiences and reflection on life, art and people. The activity has attracted attention both nationally and in Scandinavia and is regarded as a model and innovator of cultural life in China.

TCG Nordica hosts art exhibitions, dance, lectures, study circles, film nights, and concerts of all genres. A large part of the activity is education and cultural exchange. It runs a folk high school course for Swedish students, and dance courses in both contemporary and traditional Chinese dance. There are also active exchanges between Swedish and Chinese artists both in Kunming and through visits to Scandinavia. The work is based on the vision to "stimulate reflection on the value of the human being expressed in different art forms". It welcomes all art forms and people from different contexts and backgrounds who want to meet in dialog and exchange through creative expression. TCG Nordica has quickly become one of Kunming's premier galleries and a popular meeting place for the city's residents. TCG Nordica's former General Manager Wu Yue Rong was recently awarded the Royal Order of the North Star for this work.

TCG Nordica is now facing a move from its existing premises. In connection with the move, FOJAB arkitekter has been entrusted with developing a concept proposal. This includes the floor plan, materials, surfaces, furnishings and basic technical solutions for the new premises in a completely new area.

The design will be characterized by Nordic materials and simplicity, inviting multi-use of the space. All floors, not just the stage floor, in the public areas will be adapted for dance and all walls for hanging art. The space will be changeable and welcoming, encouraging repeat visits. The premises will also house a bakery with a large café for visitors.

The aim of the project is for the architecture to contribute to TCG Nordica's further development and continue building the brand. The architecture can help consolidate their good reputation and position them more strongly in the market. The move means that TCG Nordica's operations will be more accessible, visible and placed in a larger context. For example, it creates opportunities to offer Scandinavian companies to bring their customers there and show the exchange between Chinese and Scandinavian culture.

"Through its architecture, TCG Nordica could broaden the cultural encounter and provide Chinese and Swedish companies with a meeting place in a cultural and inspiring environment."
- Viveca Rosencrantz, responsible architect

For the 8th time, the Stockholm Office organized the Architecture Salon, this time with the theme "Different models for a good city".

Since the office started in Stockholm, architectural salons have been organized. The aim of the salon is to create a forum that can promote good architecture, inspire stakeholders and generate discussion and debate on various issues.

The Stockholm office's eighth Architecture Salon debated "different models for a good city". The salon was opened by architect Robert Lavelid who described how modern Paris was built during Haussmann's period in the second half of the 19th century. This evidence-based art of urban design then became an inspiration for the panel discussion.

Lars Marcus, Professor of Urban Planning at Chalmers University of Technology, said that the university also works with facts and evidence as a basis for urban planning. This is also the case in the City of Gothenburg, which was highlighted when Agneta Ericson Hammer, Director of Urban Planning, presented how Gothenburg works with these issues. Johanna Wiklander, city architect in Linköping, emphasized the importance of working with architecture and form as well. There was then an intense, interesting discussion and, as always, the audience was invited into the conversation.

The conclusion was that it is difficult to find a model that can apply everywhere, but that many facts can still form the basis for building cities and neighborhoods.

FOJAB arkitekter and BSK Arkitekter are jointly responsible for the major transformation of Helsingborg Hospital's main building. The first phase is now complete and the eastern wing is getting ready for occupancy. The first to move into the new premises is the eye clinic.

Helsingborg Hospital is being rebuilt to meet future requirements for modern care units and treatment methods. The aim is to create a general and flexible structure that will be able to function for different types of activities in the future.

The first phase has included program, system and construction documentation for the 12,000 m² East Wing of the hospital's characteristic cruciform building. The wing has been completely renovated both internally and externally, all technical systems have been replaced and the facade is new. The Eye Clinic/Operation on the 15th floor is the first to move into the new premises, followed by a phased move of wards.

An important starting point in the project has been the orientation and light in the premises. The eye clinic has a simple and clear floor plan with large glass sections that let in daylight from all directions. Colors and material choices are consistently light with wood elements, and permeate the entire wing. More and better spaces have been created for both staff and patients.

- As architects, we can make a big difference for patients and staff. The soft values are very important. I am thinking of views, daylight, beautiful colors and good materials. The physical environment should be both beautiful and functional," says Anna Hjort, commissioned architect at FOJAB arkitekter.

Work will now begin on emptying the North Wing, which will undergo an equally extensive renovation and is expected to be completed in 2019. Similar work is planned for the South and West wings in 2019-2023.

FOJAB arkitekter was commissioned to design the new verandas of the Grand Hotel in Lund. In close cooperation with Grand's owners, two new glass verandas, an outdoor terrace and a back pocket have now been built adjacent to Bantorget. The new verandas have been given their own character from the building and become a natural part of the adjacent square.

Grand Hotel is one of Lund's oldest and most classic hotels and also has a restaurant. The hotel was designed by the city architect in Helsingborg Alfred Hellerström and was built in 1896-98. The building and verandas have undergone several renovations over the years.

The assignment involved the addition of glass verandas, a back pocket and an outdoor dining area adjacent to Bantorget. The ambition has been to give the verandas a modern expression and functionality, while at the same time linking to the hotel's history and meeting the high requirements for antiquarian preservation. To support the careful handling of the building, FOJAB has collaborated with an antiquarian expert.

- An honorable and extremely interesting assignment. It is about preserving and modernizing, without destroying the historical values," says Mats Molén, the architect in charge of the project.

The verandas have high opening glass sections that create good contact with the patio and the square. In the western veranda, outside the Piraten foyer, there is space for a small stage. Large level differences in the ground gave us the opportunity to utilize the area and create a back pocket under the western porch. The back pocket will serve drinks to the outdoor terrace. Guests will be able to sit on wall-mounted benches with tables below the two verandas, as well as on an outdoor seating area facing Lilla Fiskaregatan.

The verandas are built with sustainable and character-building materials that age beautifully. The granite base interacts with the copper plate of the windows and the sandstone facade of the building. The verandas have their own character from the building and become a natural part of the square, creating movement in the surrounding urban spaces. At the same time, Bantorget is being rebuilt to be an inviting entrance to the city and contribute to a vibrant city center.

The working group at FOJAB consists of Mats Molén, Mikael Pettersson, Christina Sammer and Matilda Emgård.

See more pictures

Charlotte Kristensson is an architect responsible for knowledge environments at FOJAB arkitekter. On October 18-19, she will speak at the conference "School and preschool environments of the future 2017". The theme is strategic planning of sustainable school and preschool environments adapted to modern ways of working in schools.

The municipality of Lund has developed a new standard and program that will apply to all new primary schools in the municipality. Charlotte talks about a solid work with functional programs where, among other things, new calculation models based on the curriculum have been developed. She also talks about how they have worked with participatory processes to create influence and participation in the design of the municipality's new primary schools.

Read more about the conference

Last autumn, Växjöbostäder AB arranged an idea competition regarding a concept for how the future housing for the elderly in Växjö should be designed. FOJAB, together with the real estate company APP Properties, has developed a unique neighborhood for the target group 55+.

The design is based on the basic idea of letting the park and the green environment characterize living in Hofs Park. The park creates community for the residents and promotes a social and active life in the neighborhood. Green paths, walkways and outdoor environments interact well with the sculpted buildings and the surroundings. Adjacent to the park and square are the neighborhood's common facilities, such as a restaurant and café, gym, indoor and outdoor pool. Together with the boule and tennis courts, the pensioners' house, medical center and shops form a whole. The block will also include a preschool, which contributes to a vibrant neighborhood.

Hofs Park has high environmental and sustainability standards from a social, ecological and economic perspective. The idea is to install solar cells and meters for electricity, hot and cold water where residents can compare their consumption with an average for the area. This will further enhance the attractiveness of the neighborhood and contribute to Europe's greenest city. Construction of Hofs Park is planned to start in the fall of 2018.

We are nominated in the category Consultant of the Year 2017 for our work on the design and planning of the central shopping area Hansa in Malmö.

The nomination reads:

"In a tough retail market and with a history in good old commercial areas in Malmö, they have managed to lift a department store to new modern levels.

Good retail space planning and appropriate design allows both new and old concepts to succeed in limited spaces and premises.

Hansa in Malmö has been given a dignified new life thanks to the careful architectural work of Fojab."

In close cooperation with the client AREIM and HEA Property Partner, we have worked to refine both of Hansa's blocks into a modern and attractive commercial area in the center of Malmö. The neighborhood has a mixed-use character where shopping, restaurants and cafes are mixed with offices, schools, medical centers and housing.

- "Let's gild Hansa" was the basis of the design idea - gilding has indeed permeated the entire project. From the facades, which are almost finished, to the gold-colored construction helmets at the workplace. "Thanks to good cooperation and clear goals, we have succeeded very well with the project together with the client," says Per-Aage Nilsson, commissioned architect.

The bicycle is a convenient way to get around. But it is more than that. For many, cycling is as much about design and aesthetics as functionality. For many, it is a lifestyle. The benefits of cycling are also many - less congestion, better environment, better public health and attractive urban environments. Architect and cycling enthusiast Lars Nilsson became interested in bicycles when he bought his first bike at the age of 16 for SEK 535.

Lars Nilsson speaks at a fast pace, you can tell he is enthusiastic. We took the opportunity to ask him some questions.

How did you become interested in this?

- One early summer day about 15 years ago, I got the idea to start cycling to work. I took over an old bike from a colleague. Then I got two more and thought I wanted to do something with them. I wanted to add a personal touch. That's when I started buying parts and accessories on eBay - and that's where my interest in bike design was born.

You have built around 20 bikes over the years, almost exclusively for colleagues and friends. Where do you find inspiration?

- Sometimes I am given a free hand, but mostly I build the bikes according to the customers' wishes and requirements. I am very much inspired by old models and today you can find lots of inspiration on the Internet. It usually starts with me running into a nice part - a nice saddle or handlebar stem. Then I start from there and come up with an idea. At home I have a large stock of parts.

Do you benefit from your professional role as an architect?

- The creative side and the desire to create is something I have with me. Assembling a bike is a fairly large project. You can compare it to a construction process where you "assemble a house" but on a much smaller scale.

Lars advocates the environmental and urban aspects of cycling, among other things. How can we get more people to cycle?

- We need to plan the city for increased cycling. Cities like Copenhagen and Malmö are leading the way. Copenhagen tops the list of the world's best cycling cities. Sixty percent of people there cycle to work, while only fourteen percent take the car. "By expanding cycle paths, making sure that pedestrians know where to go and creating more cycle parking, we can increase cycling in cities. And I believe that rental bikes are the future - Malmö is doing a great job.

How many bikes do you own?

- I have eight bikes of my own! But I'm close to work so I prefer to walk. But there was a time when I cycled between the office in Malmö and my home in Lund.

FOJABcode is our computational design initiative to develop digital design processes. A strong team is now in place to explore how digital developments are changing our role as architects, the built environment and the construction process. This means that we can analyze and drive the design from several parameters that are crucial for our clients' projects.

Hello Petra Jenning, Jens Jacob Jul, Henrik Malm and Elin Daun from FOJABcode!

What are you working on?

- We work with design research and method development in the field of computational design. This means that we look broadly at the design process to explore new possibilities that open up with a digital approach to architecture, from the first sketch to manufacturing. We work on projects at different scales to find solutions to everything from specific problems to advanced design. It can be about how people move, solar radiation and energy but also materiality and spatiality. We model behaviors and processes and identify data that can drive a digital design process.

What are the benefits of computational design in architecture?

- Computational design allows us to handle more facts in the design process than before. This creates opportunities to find new solutions that better meet the needs and functions required. We can allow the computer to generate solutions where interaction and feedback between different functions and systems are baked into the design process. We usually say that the computer can give us more senses - we can understand more of what we do and create. When we link this to a digital manufacturing logic, it opens up new possibilities for the built environment.

What is the objective of the initiative?

- We want to take a holistic approach to what digitalization means for the entire chain of the construction process - from design to production to finished house - and beyond. We work to develop methods where digital thinking supports innovation. Architecture tends to become increasingly general - by using new digital tools and data collection, we can resource-efficiently create architecture that is more unique and meets the specific situation of each building.

Edvin Bylander is an architect at FOJAB arkitekter and has collaborated with artist David Svensson since 2012. Together they have worked on artworks for the Citybanan in Stockholm, the New Karolinska Hospital in Solna and the hospital in Angered. Their first project is Citybanan's Odenplan station, which opened in July.

Edvin and David's collaboration is based on a shared understanding of the relationship between art and architectural expression. Many of David's artworks are in the public space and he identified early on a need to find an architect who could help with drawings and visualizations.

- 'We work very well together and have found a working process that works. Edvin helps to provide an understanding of spatiality and scale," says David Svensson.

The artwork 'Life Line', which adorns the escalator room at Odenplan station in Stockholm, is a 350 square meter light piece inspired by the heartbeat of David's son Isaac.

- For the Citybanan station at Odenplan, I have endeavored to develop an artwork with a clear identity and a tangible presence, in harmony with the station's architectural spatiality and function. The work is based on the pulse of my son Isaac before his birth in the summer of 2012. The luminous lines showing the baby's pulse become a metaphor for life. I see a train station as the pulse of a city and its life, so it also becomes a nice metaphor," David continues.

- It is a unique piece of art and an incredibly exciting project. David had a clear idea of how he wanted to design the artwork. I have then worked on modifying the art in a spatial context, in this case a 400 square meter rock room, says Edvin Bylander.

A challenge with the artwork has been to manage the complexity and make it buildable. Edvin has coordinated with the architect of the city railway, who among other things provided a 3D scan of the entire cavern.

- At FOJAB we have a special competence to deal with this kind of complexity. We work with digital design and based on a 3D model of the room, we do it on a spatial scale. We focus on how it will be realized and relate to the surrounding architecture," says Edvin.

David and Edvin advocate the importance of integrating art and creating a holistic approach to design. They want to work on larger projects together, where art and architecture can be integrated at an early stage. David also emphasizes that art must enter the building process and work as early as possible. Too often the artist only comes into the picture once the building is completed. They both agree on the important role of art in the design of public spaces today.

- We will only see more art integrated with architecture. Public art can help create new and exciting architecture and places you want to stay. The place is given an identity with content and meaning," concludes David.

Architects Sweden has nominated the City of Stockholm's planning work with Kolkajen for this year's planning award. We are very happy and proud that FOJAB arkitekter is involved in the project.

Kolkajen is part of Stockholm's major investment in the development of Stockholm Royal Seaport and one of Sweden's largest development areas. Stockholm wants to create good conditions for cyclists and pedestrians, and the ambition is to create a neighborhood that is as car-free as possible. The number of parking spaces per apartment is low. The most sustainable and climate-smart district in Sweden will be built.

The nomination in Kolkajen concerns, among other things, the work on the detailed plan and design program. FOJAB arkitekter is currently working on developing all detailed plans, design programs and programs and system documentation for street and play environments in the area. Through a previous prequalification and parallel assignment, FOJAB has entered into a framework agreement with the City of Stockholm for the continued work. Karin Fagerberg is a planning consultant on behalf of FOJAB in the Kolkajen N Djurgårdsstaden project.

The Plan Prize is awarded to stimulate and disseminate good examples of good Swedish urban planning or urban design. It was established in 1992 by the former SAR, the Swedish Architects' Association, and has been awarded by the Swedish Architects since 2002.

The winner of the Plan Prize will be presented at the Architecture Gala on November 28 at Cirkus in Stockholm.

The MAX IV laboratory in Lund is one of five nominees for the Steel Building Award 2017. The Steel Building Prize is awarded every two years to a building that uses steel in the load-bearing structure in an innovative, environmentally sustainable and architecturally appealing way.

In 2010, FOJAB arkitekter was chosen to design and plan MAX IV for Lund University with Fastighets AB ML4 as the developer. Snøhetta arkitekter was chosen as landscape architect. The project strives for a symbiotic relationship between landscape, external building form and internal form. The large experimental hall's roof lantern with its brushed aluminum surface, the office building's white sheet metal cassettes and horizontal sun protection for windows, the other buildings' white concrete facades together with the undulating landscape have made the MAX IV laboratory a distinctive landmark at Lund's northern entrance.

The Steel Building Prize will be awarded during the Steel Building Day, Thursday, October 26, at Stockholmsmässan in Stockholm. The aim of the award is to encourage the efficient use of steel in construction and to generate new ideas and inspiring solutions.

Cecilia Pering has been the new chair of Sustainable Business Hub AB for a few months now. The network works to strengthen the competitiveness of Swedish environmental technology and stimulate the development of sustainable societies.

The network brings together over 100 members from business, public sector and academia with technological solutions as well as ambitions for a more sustainable society. The Sustainable Business Hub provides members with a platform for innovation, development and business for sustainable solutions. By connecting urban challenges with academic and business solutions, the network helps to drive the development of sustainable societies forward.

Cecilia is an architect at FOJAB arkitekter with extensive experience as a project manager for large architectural assignments. She was previously CEO of FOJAB and is now active as a Senior Partner with a focus on strategic management issues.

- "I am delighted to be entrusted with this position and look forward to taking part in the innovation work going on in the region. I hope to contribute with my experience and support interesting projects in sustainable development," says Cecilia Pering.

After a parallel design assignment, Castellum, in collaboration with the Swedish National Courts Administration, has now chosen to proceed with FOJAB's proposal for a new court building in Jönköping.

A unanimous jury selected FOJAB's proposal as the winner, highlighting its strong architectural design and qualities in the urban space.

From the jury's statement: "FOJAB presents a consistent facade design with vertical elements that nicely holds the different facade lives - the different volumes - together as a whole. The building is slightly set back from the property line, which is used for public spaces. They are located towards the park and Lake Munksjön and are considered to be a positive addition to city life....Fojab's proposal is considered to best meet the expectations we have of a court building".

- "We are extremely proud and happy about this prestigious assignment. At FOJAB, we have extensive experience of working with court buildings and the special functional requirements associated with this type of project. This, in combination with a strong idea, has paved the way for a high quality proposal," says Kjell Adamsson, responsible architect at FOJAB.

The new Court of Appeal building fits into the existing structure and connects the buildings along the western shore of Lake Munksjön. The building volume is built up with different scales in relation to its context and the surrounding urban environment. The building is pulled back from the plot boundary, which creates areas for the public to stay and move around the new court of appeal. The urban spaces are also activated by distributing several different entrances around the building, which creates life and movement.

The façade is designed with light sand-colored vertical and horizontal elements. The vertical elements limit the direct solar radiation and enhance the design of the building. The building has been specifically designed with the availability of daylight and the high environmental ambitions in mind. The building is designed to meet the requirements of the Miljöbyggnad level GOLD certification system.

- Based on a strong idea, we have developed a project of high architectural quality. The new court building has a strong character and dignity that takes advantage of the unique location and urban space at Munksjön," says Stefan Johansson, architect and creative director at FOJAB.

The competition team consisted of Stefan Johansson, Mikael Pettersson, Catarina Boström, Natalie Adelhoefer, Jonas Ruthblad and Kjell Adamsson.

After an architectural competition, FOJAB has been commissioned by Melin Förvaltning to design a completely new neighborhood on the old sugar mill site in Ängelholm. The block includes about 110 apartments close to the station, the sea and the city. Construction of the new residential buildings is planned to start in 2019.

The proposal meets the vision for the Ängelholm station area of an attractive residential area with improved connections between the city and the sea. The block's clear target points are the station, the sea and the city, and the block structure opens up towards these. Small scale and the advantages of small town life are clearly reflected in the proposal.

- Our 'Quartet' proposal draws on the best of the traditional block structure and the point house. The result was a hybrid - two different house types with a triangular plan shape surrounded by greenery and built around a common courtyard. "We wanted to create a vibrant neighborhood with courtyards and spaces for social life," says Ulrika Sellin, architect at FOJAB.

- "FOJAB has produced an attractive and innovative proposal on how to make the best use of valuable land area," says Håkan Svensson, CEO of Melin Förvaltning.

The building volumes vary between five and eight storeys and are built around a raised communal courtyard, which offers spaces for cultivation, greenhouses and play. The brick buildings are architecturally linked to the older buildings in the sugar mill area and contribute to the dignity and durability of the buildings. The apartments are open plan and most have a balcony or terrace. The large buildings have generous "balcony rooms" facing south and west.

The architecture is characterized by simplicity and clarity with a natural variation, as the buildings are perceived in completely different ways depending on the direction from which they are viewed. Despite the open block shape, there is a clear structure with private and public spaces.

FOJAB's architectural team consisted of Ulrika Sellin, project manager, Nina Torstensson, design manager and Catharina Hansson, contributor.

Gängtappen has been named a finalist by the City of Malmö in the Green Lance 2017, the city's award for environmentally sustainable and climate-smart construction.

FOJAB was commissioned by Wihlborgs Fastigheter to be responsible for the renovation of the characterful office building. The project involved a complete renovation to create modern and flexible office space. The focus was on retaining and preserving the original qualities.

Motivation of the jury: "After a thorough clean-up and careful renovation, a piece of Malmö history is stepping into the future. A new climate shell and smart energy systems, together with sound material choices and flexible workplaces, have resulted in an impressive improvement in the building's energy performance and sustainability. Through the architectural and environmental improvements, Gängtappen is an important model for the necessary environmental adaptation of the existing city."

This year, the committee has chosen to nominate three finalists, with one of the projects taking home the Green Lance, which will be awarded during the Urban Development Day on September 1 at Malmö Börshus.

FOJAB arkitekter and Fler Bostäder AB have signed an agreement with Sigtuna stadsängars exploaterings AB and will build two blocks in the new district. The blocks are characterized by high sustainability goals and innovative architecture.

Sigtuna stadsängar is a completely new district located just north of the old town center in Sigtuna with the goal of being Sweden's most sustainable district. FOJAB and Fler Bostäder will develop and build two blocks of approximately 60 tenant-owned apartments in blocks 17 and 18.

High sustainability goals have set the tone for the project idea, which fits well with Sigtuna stadsängar's ambitions. FOJAB and Fler bostäder will focus in particular on social sustainability.

- We are pleased to be entrusted with the development of Sigtuna Stadsängar together with Fler Bostäder. Based on a strong idea, we are developing a unique project with high architectural quality. By taking greater responsibility for the whole, we are deepening our expertise," says Kjell Adamsson, architect and business development manager at FOJAB.

- We look forward to being involved in developing a new exciting neighborhood. Fler Bostäder has the ambition to create long-term sustainable housing environments for more people from a social, ecological and economic perspective, says Magnus Knutsson, CEO of Fler Bostäder.

The project idea is based on the idyllic city center of Sigtuna with its qualities in terms of neighborhood structure, materiality and scale. The mix within the neighborhood is shaped by different typologies; the townhouse, the apartment building and the villa, stacked on top of each other. Ground floor dwellings open up to the street with multifunctional spaces. Greenery grows on the facades facing the courtyard. The block has direct contact with the city and common spaces for socializing, linked to nature and lush courtyards.

- FOJAB and Fler Bostäder have well met the expectations of a sustainable, innovative and exciting project in line with our development strategy and sustainability levels, says Kim Hultén, operations manager for Sigtuna stadsängar Exploaterings AB.

FOJAB and Fler Bostäder are forming a joint project company for the development of the blocks in Sigtuna stadsängar. The cooperation is strategic and long-term and the ambition is to have more projects in Sigtuna and other nearby locations.

Work is now beginning on the design of the properties. Sales are expected to start in January 2018 and construction will begin in spring 2018.

FOJAB arkitekter has made a strategic decision to expand its business and is now focusing on project development under the name FOJAB development. This is a platform for entering into partnerships and developing projects in-house. Initially, a collaboration is entered into with Fler Bostäder AB.

With the desire to take greater responsibility and develop its own projects, FOJAB is broadening its activities. The aim is to further sharpen our architecture and gain greater experience and knowledge of project economics, feasibility and the construction process. Through an increased understanding, FOJAB will create added value for customers and clients in all its projects.

Kjell Adamsson, architect and business development manager, will be responsible for the development of the new business.

- FOJAB development is a natural step in our business. By developing projects in collaboration with different actors, we can take greater responsibility for the whole and influence all parts from finance to design. This will make us a better partner for all our clients," says Kjell Adamsson.

Initially, a partnership is being established with Fler Bostäder, a relatively young company with a lot of experience and commitment to housing development.

- We are very pleased to be working with FOJAB arkitekter. They have an extremely broad knowledge in the various areas of architecture combined with an understanding of the conditions of the projects. Through the collaboration, we benefit from our shared commitment and create new interesting business opportunities, says Magnus Knutsson at Fler Bostäder.

FOJAB's focus on project development also creates the conditions for architecture to take on a greater role. Joachim Lundquist, Head of Architecture at FOJAB, comments:

- High-quality, idea-based architecture creates long-term value and sustainability. We bring this driving force into all our projects. Now that we can influence processes and decisions to a greater extent, we are more likely to create strong ideas and concepts that last all the way to execution.

Almedalen Week is fast approaching. We will be on site and are happy to talk about architecture, urbanization, challenges in the dense city, future housing and digitization. We are looking to the future, sharing experiences and providing insights.

We will be there from 3 to 7 July and participate in 5 events:

MONDAY 3/7 - SWEDEN'S MOST SUSTAINABLE DISTRICT GIVES LAND DISCOUNT FOR INNOVATION POWER
Participants from FOJAB arkitekter are Kjell Adamsson.

TUESDAY 4/7 - CITIES AND URBAN LIFE OF THE FUTURE
Participants from FOJAB arkitekter are Edvin Bylander.

TUESDAY 4/7 - CONSTRUCTION AND DIGITALIZATION
Participants from FOJAB arkitekter are Petra Jenning.

WEDNESDAY 5/7: ALMEDELA - HOW DO WE WANT TO LIVE IN 2030?
Participants from FOJAB arkitekter are Ida Stavenow.

FRIDAY 7/7: HOW DO ARCHITECTS SOLVE THE HOUSING CRISIS?
Participants from FOJAB arkitekter are Edvin Bylander.

On site from FOJAB are Anders Eriksson, Cecilia Pering, Daniel Nord, Edvin Bylander, Emma Schöön, Ida Stavenow, Jens Larsson, Joachim Lundquist, Karin Fagerberg, Kjell Adamsson, Magdalena Hedman, Magnus Lundström, Petra Jenning.

Together with Bonava, FOJAB is the winner of the land allocation competition for Rosendal phase 3 in Uppsala. The proposal is based on the municipality's vision for the area: In Rosendal everything is close, Everyone is welcome, A smarter district.

Rosendal is a completely new and rapidly growing district close to the center of Uppsala. The district will be an area with a mix of housing, commerce, services and proximity to green parks and nature areas. The assignment was to create a vibrant residential district with a focus on sustainability.

- "Uppsala Municipality has a high level of ambition for the area and it is gratifying to participate in this major initiative in Rosendal together with Bonava. We have presented a strong proposal with clear urban qualities where the green surroundings are really woven into the block," says Jens Larsson, office manager and architect responsible for the project at FOJAB in Stockholm.

The winning proposal, "Kvarterskalaset", is based on a vibrant ground floor with courtyards and paths that encourage a social, sustainable and active lifestyle. Common functions are gathered around a central lobby that serves a variety of purposes. The courtyard opens up to the park in the east and the parkway in the north. The block is given a strong design with facades of brick and wood that contribute to creating character in Rosendal.

- We wanted to create a neighborhood full of life and movement. It creates opportunities for people of different ages to meet, socialize and interact. For us, form is always central, so we have created a long-term sustainable architecture - a design that stands the test of time," says Jens Larsson.

FOJAB has also proposed a sustainability concept focusing on mobility services, smart technical solutions and green building. Through a technical platform, residents can meet their neighbors, share resources and keep track of their homes via phone or computer. Functions that contribute to community and inspire a social and environmentally conscious lifestyle.

The competition proposal will now form the basis for further work on the program and building permit documents. If the work goes as planned, construction of the block will begin in 2019.

During the spring, we organized two well-attended architecture salons in Malmö and Stockholm. In Malmö, there were interesting discussions about Virtual Reality where visitors took the opportunity to look into the future and deepen their knowledge. At the Stockholm office's seventh architecture salon, 'The beauty of the city' was debated. This is an urgent issue in a time of intensive construction and many large-scale projects.

FOJAB arkitekter's Malmö office organized architecture salon #2. on the theme Virtual Reality - experiences and visions. Some fifty visitors took the opportunity to explore the future and deepen their knowledge of VR. There was mingling and food followed by an illuminating and interesting panel debate. There were also test stations where visitors could visually step in and experience ongoing projects.

Petra Jenning, architect and responsible for FOJABcode moderated between exciting contributions from Mats Eliasson, CEO of One Reality, Ulrika Hallengren, Head of Development at Wihlborgs, Per Sikö, Studio Lead at Jayway and Mimmi Tegnér, Business Developer at Science Center Malmö Museer.

The panel agreed on the importance and possibilities of VR for architects and the construction industry. Partly in the visualization work but also to streamline work processes, develop future construction projects and technical solutions. The democratic process was highlighted and the opportunities provided in the form of an increased understanding of the final product.

- As architects, we work to create information and understanding. Being able to have a spatial and real experience of the building before it is actually built is a fantastic opportunity," said Petra Jenning.

At the Stockholm office's seventh Architecture Salon debated 'The beauty of the city'. A pressing issue at a time of intensive construction and many large-scale projects, the engagement of both the invited speakers and the audience was unmistakable. During a few intense hours, the issue was highlighted through introductory speeches and in a subsequent debate, led by FOJAB arkitekter's Robert Lavelid.

First up was Torleif Falk, newly appointed City Architect of Stockholm, who emphasized that the city has been full of unbridled life since the time of Gustav Vasa and that the success factor lies in balancing sustainability, function and beauty.

Tatjana Joksimović, Head of Planning at the County Administrative Board, highlighted cultural heritage as intimately linked to sustainability development and emphasized the County Administrative Board's desire to provide advice and guidance at an early stage. Anna Nyberg, Vasakronan's Head of Real Estate Development in Stockholm, also saw the cooperation between real estate developers, the City of Stockholm, the County Administrative Board and the Beauty Council as valuable in achieving a mixed and safe city with life and movement.

- The Beauty Council is unique in its independence as a municipal body, said its secretary and head of office Henrik Nerlund, describing its mission as advisory, reactive, initiating and educative.

- Plan community buildings first and not last, he told the Salon.

Jesper Wallin, CEO of Byggnadsfirman Erik Wallin, highlighted the need to stick to the core values throughout the project:

- Together, we need to stay focused on the purpose of the project - this is where architects have an important role in finding the balance in the process.

FOJAB arkitekter recruits interior designer Patrik Bengtsson. This further strengthens the architectural office's expertise in interior architecture and design.

- We are very pleased that through Patrik we are now strengthening our capacity in interior design where the demand for services is constantly increasing, says interior designer Lisa Mannheimer, FOJAB arkitekter.

Patrik Bengtsson is a furniture design interior architect with a focus on specialized interiors and has a craft background in fine carpentry and building conservation. Since 2013, he has run his own business, Patrik Bengtsson Design Studio, where he has mainly designed furniture for Swedish furniture manufacturers and public environments.

Patrik has previously worked at Creo arkitekter in Stockholm, where he mainly designed special interiors for the Swedish Court of Justice. Patrik has also worked with various consulting assignments and teaching furniture design at the School of Architecture in Lund.

- It will be very fun to be part of a larger context and exciting to be involved in developing the interior design side of FOJAB arkitekter, says Patrik Bengtsson.

FOJAB arkitekter continues to design street spaces and a playground in Kolkajen, Stockholm's new waterfront district at Lilla Värtan.

The street spaces are important links in the new district and will be designed with stormwater, greenery and quality of life in focus. On the waterfront, we are designing a large playground with a natural character, where lush trees and undulating wooden structures create a stimulating play environment.

Kolkajen is part of Stockholm's major investment in the development of Stockholm Royal Seaport and one of Sweden's largest development areas. Stockholm wants to create good conditions for cyclists and pedestrians, and the ambition is to create a neighborhood that is as car-free as possible. The number of parking spaces per apartment is low. The most sustainable and climate-smart district in Sweden will be built.

FOJAB arkitekter has also worked on a quality program that forms the basis for the detailed plan for the area and for the continued design. Through a previous prequalification and parallel assignment, FOJAB arkitekter has entered into a framework agreement with the City of Stockholm for the continued work.