In the fourth episode, Södra Björstorp – Husdrömmar, we follow an extraordinary journey in which a burnt-down 18th century manor house in Södra Björstorp, outside Brösarp, rises from the ashes. What was once a stately manor, turned into ruins after a devastating fire. But where others might have seen a hopeless case, Tuula and her family saw a chance to recreate a home filled with history and faith in the future. It’s a story of stubbornness, love for one’s heritage, and the power of rebuilding when all seems lost.
Table of contents
Background information
Tuula, the strong matriarch of the family, has a life story that stretches from childhood Finland to the Scanian countryside. After growing up as a Finnish war child in Sweden, she found her home at Södra Björstorp. The farm, which has been in the family since 1912, became her fixed point in life. “My home is back, and I’m back in my home,” Tuula says with a touch of pride and relief in her voice. When the fire destroyed the farm, it was never a question of if it would be rebuilt, but how.
Facts about the house
Location: Södra Björstorp, outside Brösarp, Skåne
Size: Approximately 500 m² of living space
Year built: The original building was completed in 1775
Budget: Funded by insurance money and contributions from Tuula’s three children
Challenges along the way
Rebuilding an 18th-century house to today’s building standards was anything but easy. The heat of the fire had affected the walls, creating uncertainty about whether they could even be preserved. In addition, modern fire safety and accessibility requirements had to be integrated into the historic structure. “There’s not a straight wall here,” says one of the builders with a smile. Despite this, the family and the construction team managed to strike a balance between the old and the new.
Design and inspiration
Tuula was determined to preserve the original soul of the farm. “I promised myself that as far as I can, it will look like it did back then,” she explains. At the same time, her children saw opportunities to modernize some parts. The result was an intergenerational home where each family member could add their own touch. This included reinstalling a historic stove, carefully restored to preserve its cultural heritage.
The renovation journey
The project began with securing the remaining walls. A careful process of measuring, planning and building followed. There were many challenges: sloping walls, uneven floors and the need for customized solutions. But with the help of skilled craftsmen and a strong family bond, the house took shape, piece by piece.
Final result
When the family finally moved into their rebuilt home, it was with mixed feelings of joy, relief and pride. “It feels so amazing. I feel at home,” says Tuula with tears in her eyes. Although the house bears traces of modern times, every room breathes the history of Södra Björstorp.
In conclusion, Tuula sums up the journey with the words: “My home is back, and I am back in my home.” Powerful proof that even after the greatest losses, you can build something beautiful again.
