Episode 5, Stora Köpinge – House dreams. What do you do when you want to do something really different to break the routine? Petra and Anders Jönsson from Stockholm chose to transform an old fire station in Österlen into a unique summer house. The result is a perfect combination of creativity, courage and architectural skill. Let’s take a closer look at this spectacular project and how it managed to combine charming history with modern design
Table of contents
A fire station with potential
The small fire station in Stora Köpinge was built in 1930 and served as a community service for many years before it was put up for sale. When Petra and Anders found it online during a vacation, Petra fell head over heels. For SEK 750,000, it became theirs, and soon the journey to turn the 55 square meter building into a home for the whole family of seven began.
The journey to the dream home
Renovating a building that is part of a building conservation program is never easy. The couple had to change their plans to preserve the original character of the house, including keeping the red color. The building permit took four months to come through, but once it did, they took on the project with full force.
The renovation required extensive measures. The foundations were excavated to install underfloor heating, and the brick walls were carefully restored. In addition, an extension was built to provide extra space for a dining room, and large skylights were installed in the roof to let in maximum daylight.
A design out of the ordinary
The fire station tower is the heart of the house and a place for both practical function and relaxation. There are bedrooms, a bathroom and, at the top, a lounge area with a stunning view. A custom-made pine staircase winds up through the tower, connecting all floors.
The extension facing the river serves as an airy dining room and gives the house a modern touch. The strategic light from the skylights makes the otherwise robust brick walls feel warm and welcoming.
The result - a harmonious summer oasis
When the project was completed as planned in December 2017, the small fire station had been transformed into a family summer oasis. The house offers a unique balance between industrial heritage and a soft, family-friendly aesthetic. The black and white contrasts of the kitchen, along with the sight lines through the house, create a modern feel while maintaining the historic charm of the building.
At the top of the tower is a place for contemplation, while the dining room is perfect for social gatherings. Petra and Anders have not revealed the total construction cost, but it is clear that both time and care have been put into every detail.
Facts about the house
Location: Stora Köpinge, Österlen
Year of construction: 1930
Living space: From 55 sqm to 90 sqm after remodeling
Project start: February 2017
Project end: December 2017
Closure
The fire station project shows how history and modernity can meet in outstanding design. Petra and Anders’ choice to turn this building into a summer house is an inspiring example of how to think outside the box and create something that both honors the past and meets the needs of the future.
At Stiligt, we want to encourage more people to take the step towards realizing their house dreams. Whether it’s renovating an old building or creating a new home from scratch, the possibilities are endless. Let us help you find inspiration and solutions for your dream project.
