In the episode, Tygelsjö – House Dreams, we followed Sandra and Johannes, a young couple, who went from facing a house-buying nightmare to building their dream home using an innovative construction technique. The episode was both dramatic and inspiring, and we follow a journey filled with challenges, difficult decisions and finally a fantastic result.
Table of contents
From dream to nightmare
Sandra and Johannes, aged 28 and 29, were looking forward to transforming their newly purchased 1950s house in Tygelsjö into a charming and functional home. The house, which was bought for SEK 2.3 million, was to be renovated for another million. But just two weeks after moving in, reality struck – the house was found to be in such poor condition that it posed a safety risk. The roof trusses, vital to the stability of the house, had been sawed off during a previous renovation attempt.
When architect Gert Wingårdh visited the house, he advised them to demolish it completely. “This is not something you can renovate your way out of,” he explained, pointing to the extensive problems that would turn their budget into a renovation trap.
Insight: Demolition is the only way forward
Despite the shock, Sandra and Johannes realized that demolition was the only option. But what would they do next? Selling the land at a loss or building a new house seemed like tough decisions to make. With support from the bank and help from Johannes’ parents, the couple decided to invest in a new house – a decision that would prove life-changing.
A new chapter with solid wood blocks
The choice of construction technique was crucial. Instead of traditional construction methods, they chose to build with solid wood blocks, a method that is both sustainable and aesthetically pleasing. The house model, called Bismarck, was developed by Bosum and is characterized by a rugged New England design.
The construction kit, including wooden blocks, doors and windows, cost around SEK 1 million. The wood block technique involves joining solid pine pieces together with plywood strips and tie rods, creating stable and durable walls without the risk of shrinkage.
In four months, the frame was completed and the couple could start creating their new home. The house is impressive, with 134 square meters on the ground floor and 34 square meters upstairs. The open floor plan with seven-meter high ceilings in the living room and kitchen adds to the feeling of space and light.
The result: A home to be proud of
When Gert Wingårdh returned to see the finished building, he was impressed. “You have created something that not only fits in here but also creates value,” he said. The large windows, the high ceilings and the thoughtful choice of materials contribute to the building’s modern and timeless feel.
Sandra and Johannes now have a home that is outstanding in many ways. It’s not only a house they love themselves, but one that also attracts potential buyers. As Gert concluded: “You can be really proud of this house.”
Facts about the house
Location: Tygelsjö, Malmö
Size: 178 sqm
Construction method: Solid wood blocks
Unique details: 7 meter high ceilings in kitchen and living room
Total cost: 5.3 million SEK
Closure
Sandra and John’s story is a reminder that even the greatest adversity can be turned into something positive. Through courage, creativity and the right guidance, they managed to create a home that is both unique and sustainable.
