Friday, September 12 | 2025
Written by William Mansell
Sweden has come a long way architecturally from the classic ‘Falu Röd färg’ red houses. From tree & Ice hotels to a twisted skyscraper. Sweden boasts an eclectic variety of architecture to rival any country.
Come take a journey around Sweden in 8 buildings.
Public Library, Stockholm
One of Stockholm’s lesser known gems Located on the corner of Odengaten & Sveavägen is the public library. The unassuming terracotta orange exterior blends in with its surrounding buildings. Undoubtedly the real magic is seen from inside where the round library exudes insta-worthy beauty.
Turning Torso, Malmö
A large percentage of Sweden’s architecture can be found in its capital, Stockholm. Situated on the edge of Kungsholmen is Stadshuset or city hall in all its romantic style glory. Home to the Nobel prize banquet, the 3 golden crown topped, 106m bell tower also provides gorgeous views over Stockholm and lake Malären.
Emporia Mall, Malmö
One of the biggest shopping malls in Sweden home to some 200 shops, Malmö’s Emporia proudly shows off its contemporary curved glass façade. Swedish architects Wingårdgs designed the building to break shopping centre conventions.
Kuggen, Gothenburg
Also designed by Wingårdhs, Kuggen is one of Gothenburg’s newest members on the block. Part of the Chalmers University of Technology, this green designed building is contemporarily clad in red, terracotta and green cladding. Finished with triangular glazed windows and a movable sunscreen track, Kuggen is truly unique.
Stortorget, Gamla Stan, Stockholm
Arguably the most photographed buildings in Stockholm, #18, 20 & 22 have not only become icons of the city but also the country. These medieval, higgledy-piggledy, colourful buildings set the tone for the rest of the old town, Gamla Stan which oozes history.
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The future of Swedish architecture looks bright & shows no signs of stopping. The redevelopment of Slussen and the instalment of the new ‘Guldbron’ bridge in Stockholm is proof enough!
Have you spotted any of these buildings on your travels around Sweden? Which is your favourite? Let us know in the comments.
E-learning course: Preparing your move to Sweden
Are you already feeling a bit overwhelmed about all the stuff you need to figure out how to move to Sweden? We’ve got you covered. Over the years we’ve been repeatedly told just stressful this process can be so we created a digital course with all the information you need to move. Here you will learn about:After finishing this course, you will have a greater understanding of what has made Sweden what it is today, how you best prepare for a move here and to get your stay here started in the best manner. Sign up to your course here
- Short (and long facts) about Sweden.
- The history and background of Sweden in regards to democracy, religious freedom, gender equality, social security, child welfare and LGBTQIA+.
- The types of visas and residence permits that are available plus the requirements.
- Important Swedish agencies, and trust us, you DO need to know about these ones.
- How to find a place to stay and how to avoid rental fraud.
- How to pack for your move depending on the season.
- And there will be some quizzes to make sure you are paying attention and not falling asleep at your screen.
About the Author I’m a wannabie Swede, currently living in the UK, hoping to soon call Sweden home! A designer, creator and all-round Swedish fan, I am highly interested in the culture, music, design, nature & of course Fika! When I’m not travelling, I also love to watch Scandi noirs, listen to Swedish music & I watch Melodifestivalen every year! These have all helped me to develop my Swedish language skills!
