Eight color samples now cover the fifth high-rise at Sergelstorg in central Stockholm. The building originally featured a bronze-colored facade with integrated lighting when completed in 1962. The color quickly faded and the lighting system was eventually turned off.
Property developer Wallenstam aims to restore the original appearance while preserving the architectural integrity. Project developer Filip Borgelin stated in a release that their vision involves bringing back the color while maintaining the building's distinctive architecture.
The five high-rises represent an important chapter in Stockholm's urban development history. City planners first envisioned modernizing the area back in 1871 when Central Station opened. The current City Plan featuring these towers was approved in summer 1952.
Architecture historian Martin Rörby explained that the original design concept featured tall buildings reaching upward with green terraces. He noted there was political consensus at the time about renewing the city center.
The property company worked with preservationists, architects and Stockholm city officials to research archives for the correct original color. Borgelin described the challenge of scaling up color samples from small swatches to full building size.
Workers will remove walls and windows floor by floor, replacing them with new aluminum facades. Old windows will be swapped for energy-efficient models that better retain heat. The complete renovation is scheduled for final completion in Third Quarter 2027.
The five towers and demolition of the surrounding Klara neighborhood have faced criticism over the years. The ambitious urban renewal project fundamentally transformed central Stockholm's character.
This careful restoration approach shows how cities now value preserving postwar architectural heritage that was once controversial.