Sonja Wingborg

In 1953, Årsta Torg was built. The square was designed by architect brothers Erik and Tore Ahlsén and was typical of the architectural ideas of the time. To this day, it remains a living example of a community centre, a concept in urban planning that emphasises social cohesion and collectivism. Community centres create an environment where people can live, work, and interact with each other, establishing a modern and social neighbourhood.

The square, with its painted, decorative facades, is a renowned location that arouses both criticism and admiration. In the centre of the square stands a building in which the ground floor was originally designed to be used for retail. With large windows on all four facades, openness and transparency were enabled for the activities within. Today, the space is used as a gym and the windows are covered with plastic film to reduce visibility.

Through a careful analysis of the square’s colour palette, architectural style, and social dynamics, I have developed a new concept for the space. My proposal makes use of egg tempera as a method to recreate the colour scheme I perceive in Årsta. Furthermore, I aim to preserve and revive the authentic atmosphere and character of the area.