The World’s Largest Wooden Construction Project Officially Starts

The plans for Stockholm Wood City, Sweden’s new wooden city and the world’s largest urban development project in wood, were unveiled last June. The project will provide approximately 7,000 new workplaces and 2,000 new homes. Swedish urban developer Atrium Ljungberg is behind the project, which was originally planned to begin in 2025. However, construction is now starting earlier than expected. Moving forward, the wooden buildings will grow rapidly, adding one new floor every week.

“We want to lead the way for the next generation of urban development projects, placing human well-being at the center. This requires climate, social, and economic sustainability. We are now turning that vision into reality,” says Annica Ånäs, CEO of Atrium Ljungberg.

The first area of the project to be built in wood is the Kvarter 7 at Nobelberget, marking the launch of this large-scale initiative in the Sickla area of Stockholm. Wood as a building material offers significant environmental benefits while enabling quieter and faster construction. Several research studies also indicate that buildings made from natural materials like wood enhance residents’ well-being.

In parallel with Kvarter 7, Campus Sickla is being expanded by an additional 2,000 square meters of facilities for high school education, also built with a wooden structure and facade. The expansion is expected to be ready to welcome students by fall 2025.

"Sickla is merging with Stockholm’s inner city as transportation connections improve over the next few years. With the Tvärbanan, the new Saltsjöbanan, and soon the new metro line, travel time will be reduced to five minutes to Slussen and seven minutes to T-Centralen. “With the Stockholm Wood City as its beacon, Sickla will become the Nordic epicenter for sustainability, innovation, and well-being,” says Annica Ånäs.

Earlier this year, Atrium Ljungberg was named one of the world’s most innovative companies by the American magazine Fast Company. The company is also a driving force behind three other major projects in the Stockholm area: Nya Slussen, The New Slussen, a pivotal transportation hub and urban renewal project. Hagastaden, a new city district focused on life sciences and innovation, and the Slakthusområdet district, The Meatpacking District, which will be one of the world’s largest meat packing districts and a vibrant cultural area.

“We aspire to be a global frontrunner in creating environments that enhance the quality of life for everyone living, working, and spending time in the areas we develop. This approach will also contribute to the growth and attractiveness of Stockholm and other major Swedish cities,” concludes Annica Ånäs.

Facts about Stockholm Wood City:

• 250,000 square meters of gross total area
• 2,000 homes
• 7,000 office spaces

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