Majken Graham

When St. Eriks Ögonsjukhus moved from its premises on Kungsholmen in 2020, they left behind a large 50-year-old building in white brick with brown metal features. Now, this 70s building, like many other late modernist structures, is doomed for demolition. As we tear down functional buildings, the climate crisis looms, with Sweden’s construction industry currently accounting for 40% of all waste. The equation doesn’t add up; we must learn to reuse what’s already built and understand the value even in these, perhaps often misunderstood, buildings.

As a counterproposal to the planned demolition of St. Eriks Ögonsjukhus, for my degree project I present Saving Tegelbruket 4, a transformation of the hospital’s old premises. The project focuses on the building’s entrance, which becomes a shared space for the various activities housed in the building and for the local community.

In the interior, I want to highlight the architectural qualities and details that are easily overlooked. By allowing them and the historical context of the area to become part of the interior, my hope is that visitors will see the white brick building with brown metal features through new eyes.