A Better Mix

This project focuses on the future developments of Ulvsunda Industriområde, questioning the tendency to relocate “dirty”, “unsustainable” industrial areas out of the city to promote “sustainable” housing and “productive”, “lively” mixed areas. While the developments currently planned by the city in and around Ulvsunda Industriområde responds to the housing crisis, they overlook its current richness as well as needs and impacts on its 20,000 workers (Bromma – “en diversebutik av företag” (n.d.)). While construction is already underway in the north of the site, the threat to the entire area is exacerbated by the probable replacement of Bromma Airport with housing after 2038 (Stockholm Stad, 2025). Therefore, with this project, we aim to propose developments that anchor the industry, countering workers’ claim that “if the airport goes, we go” and respond to the push for housing in a way that includes, supports, and protects the already broad mix of uses and users active in the area.Based on the learnings gathered through desktop studies, field visits and many discussions with both workers and businesses, we have identified a core industrial area and 5 interface zones surrounding it. Adding and improving space for industries together with housing, green-blue structures, and public spaces in the interface zones could help support their particular mix and character. This, in turn, could strengthen their role as protection for the industrial core and anchor that core within the city. Furthermore, creating a viable system of movement and dialogue spaces in, between and beyond the zones would reduce conflicts between different uses and users, and help anchor the industrial uses with urban life. This would enhance social qualities for workers, residents, and visitors, without affecting the logistics of the industries.