Transforming BRF Svärdsklingan: A Community Courtyard Reimagined
BRF Svärdsklingan, a housing cooperative located in Borås, Sweden, encompasses nearly 200 apartments and boasts a sprawling courtyard of almost 15,000 square meters. Historically, this spacious area was marred by an overwhelming presence of parked cars and worn-out metal sheds, limiting its potential as a vibrant communal space. Members of the cooperative faced a dual challenge: the need for more parking while simultaneously aiming to create a car-free environment for socializing and recreational activities. Lennart Klaesson, a long-serving board member, reflects on this balancing act, highlighting the hurdles they needed to overcome.
Recognizing the enormity of the project, the cooperative board decided to collaborate with Riksbyggen, an established property management company. Tasked with both the management and execution of the renovation, Riksbyggen's Remodeling Department undertook a comprehensive investigation and planning process for the courtyard's transformation.
The renovation project included the construction of a two-story parking garage, complemented by two recycling buildings adorned with sedum roofs to facilitate household waste collection. Furthermore, the cooperative aimed to enhance the living experience for its residents, particularly those in smaller apartments, by creating a guest apartment from an existing old space.
Fredrik Hansson, the project manager from Riksbyggen, shared insights on the extensive work undertaken, which included feasibility studies, project planning, contractor procurement, and meticulous management of practical tasks to ensure a smooth execution. During the initial stages of renovation, it became evident that the cooperative's buildings needed significant upgrades. The external water and sewage systems, as well as electrical services, were outdated and required updates.
Ultimately, Riksbyggen provided BRF Svärdsklingan with a fixed price for the renovation, which, while substantial, promised significant returns in value for the housing cooperative. By modernizing critical infrastructure, the cooperative not only addressed immediate needs but ensured a forward-thinking approach to maintaining their properties.
The newly developed parking garage paved the way for a reimagined courtyard—car-free and conducive to outdoor living. With new features such as green spaces, walking paths, and recreational areas including a covered barbecue spot, the environment transformed dramatically. An orangery with a fully functional kitchen was constructed, creating a hub for community gatherings throughout the year.
Gordana Jakupovic, the cooperative's chairperson, expressed her pride in the renovation outcome. Residents frequently utilize the grill and orangery, immeasurably enhancing neighborly relations within the community. Her joyful experience of watching her grandchildren play in the courtyard represents the true spirit of community that this renovation has fostered.
Klaesson echoes those sentiments, noting the profound difference between the courtyard's former state and its current vibrant atmosphere. The project not only rejuvenated a significant communal space but also enhanced the overall living experience for the residents of BRF Svärdsklingan.
This ambitious overhaul illustrates how collaborative efforts, when well-managed and complemented by professional insights, can lead to transformative enhancements in community living. For cooperative members, the future now looks bright—marked by a flourishing outdoor environment that encourages relationships, recreation, and revitalized community spirit.
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