Sankt Paulsparken by LAND Arkitektur

Once perceived as an extension of a schoolyard, Sankt Paulsparken is a public space nestled in the heart of Stockholm, just adjacent to one of the city’s busy spots, Mariatorget. Previously characterized by an unprogrammed asphalt surface and high fences, the space served as an informal playground where children learned to ride bikes, play ball, and roam freely. In the redesigned park, LAND has embraced and enhanced this informality, while creating a more open and welcoming environment. The unprogrammed is seen as a quality to be enhanced, as a rare element in an otherwise dense urban setting.

The characteristic silhouette of the Sankt Paul Church acts as a backdrop for the park, a seamless transition between the park and the outdoor facilities of the church was integrated in the new design. Stockholm city mission, a volunteer-based organization for people in vulnerable situation, unemployed or with low income is based in the Sankt Paul church and runs daily activities from within its walls. Their canteen, which offers meals at reduced prices, now opens directly onto the park. The prime sunny plaza where the outdoor seating are placed almost like on a stage, allows activity to spill out into the public park.

LANDs office is conveniently located close to the park and have therefore been able to follow the site closely throughout the process. Both before and during construction. To continue observing the site and its evolving processes even after completion, LAND has initiated a weekly photography session. Colleagues take turns documenting the park from a fixed point, creating an ongoing record of its use and transformation. This project will continue over the next 2.5 years. The intimate study of the activities taking place in the integrated space between church and park, and a care for continuing the spontaneous processes of the site has been considered in the new design. The park remains a space for play and movement by keeping the open and flexible aspects but with added elements to give more richness to the space. The design also ties the park with the surrounding urban fabric, encouraging passersby to stop, engage, or simply pass through.

With the fences removed, the frame of the park is defined by greenery with new plantings, subtly drawing the edges of the space towards the surrounding streets. Close to the neighboring school a cluster of trees marks the transition between schoolyard and public space, while roses are climbing on the facade. A long communal table positioned in the sunniest spot invites use for lunch breaks, chess games, or neighborhood gatherings. The existing 35×35 cm concrete pavers from the surrounding sidewalks continue into the park, forming a cohesive edge around a central gravel area, that is anchored by a striking focal point: a cast terrazzo border encircling a series of water fountains, all set on smooth asphalt. When the fountains are off, the asphalt becomes a flexible space where children can still learn to bike or skate. The gravel that covers most of the floor invites other activities, like games of pétanque. Together, the park and the church form a continuous, welcoming urban space that both in activities and spatial qualities supports spontaneous encounters and everyday use.

Architects involved in the design:
Spridd arkitektur

Other credits:
Photo credits: Ulf Lundin
Client: Södermalms Stadsdelsförvaltning, Karin Mehlis (Sankt Paulsparken), Kyrkans Fastighetssamverkan, Sven Löfvenberg (St Paul)

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