Nötskrikan - Architecture that weaves together history and the present
Nötskrikan at Lugnet in Borås weaves together the area’s history and contemporary life in a new residential building. Carefully chosen materials give the building a sense of both robustness and tactility. Through its proportions and volume, the house takes a natural place in the city fabric, where the presence of the church, the cultural center, and the smaller streets meet in a harmonious dialogue between past, present and future.
// The area and the urban space
Lugnet in Borås is an area rich in history and diversity, with Gustav Adolf’s Church as its natural centerpiece. Large institutions coexist with smaller residences and intimate streets. Historic maps reveal that the church was originally positioned as a visual focal point, framed by two radiating streets one of which passes the site in question. This makes the location sensitive and demands that the new building harmonizes with and enhances the sightlines along Gustav Adolf’s Street.
The new building becomes a complementary tone in the cityscape respectful yet forward-looking. It relates to the church, the cultural center, and the human scale of the smaller streets. Proportions and materials are chosen to interact with the surroundings and create a contemporary yet timeless presence.
The ground floor is transparent and gently curves inward to welcome passersby, while the forecourt becomes a space for everyday life, meetings, and movement. Above, greenhouses rise like lanterns in the evening light, with shared rooftop gardens and rooms for reflection. From here, the view opens over Borås the church spire, treetops, and quiet streets. Through these architectural gestures, the block becomes an important link between the city’s history and its future.
// A proposal that reflects the façade concept
The building draws inspiration from its context without resorting to imitation. Materials, proportions, and details connect to the surroundings while expressing a contemporary identity calm and confident. The façades are structured yet warm, solid yet tactile, striking a balance between civic presence and human scale.
Materials are chosen for durability and their ability to age gracefully, with careful attention to every detail. The architecture combines classical order with modern expression, creating a harmonious dialogue between past and present.
Stone, brick, and metal lend the building a sense of robustness and elegance. The choice of RT 455 Rustica stone reinforces the narrative of a place where history meets the present.
Brick detailing and variations in mortar joints add subtle effects and layers of expression. A low balcony with “hit-and-miss” brickwork, inspired by older buildings, introduces character.
The result is a building that does not seek attention but stands quietly and confidently as part of the city’s ongoing dialogue between heritage and change. It becomes a living link between history and the future an expression of good architecture.
// Material selection
Rustica is a series of hand-molded bricks that reflect the timeless tradition of brick craftsmanship. The clay is pressed into sanded molds, giving it the characteristic texture and feel associated with classic handmade brick.
Today, the process uses modern technology while faithfully recreating the traditional method. The result is a brick with a rustic appearance, varied surfaces, subtle irregularities, and rich details that give each piece its unique charm.
// Facts
Project:
Nötskrikan
Location:
Sweden
General Contractor:
Sjuhärads Bygg i Borås AB
Masonry Contractor:
Elmgrens Mureri AB
Project Developer:
Byggrådet Invest AB
Architects:
Navjord + Abrahamsson
Product:
RT445 Rustica Red/brown Patina
