Public Space and Politics in Stockholm
Today, the Swedish political climate was turned upside down in the space of a few minutes. Year long debates were seemingly concluded during a press conference with the ruling parties in Stockholm. In short, they decided that the capital will not see its first Apple Store being built in Kungsträdgården, no Nobel Centre at Blasieholmen and finally no Olympic nomination for 2026.
It is rare that a political statement to mark a new reign chooses to emphasise negative development rather than a future agenda or vision. It is understandable that the winning entry for the Nobel Centre may not be appreciated by everyone, but the fact that the vacant backyard plot at Blasieholmen is not up for development causes serious concern and is a threat to Sweden in general and Stockholm in particular as centres of science and innovation. The more digital and online our world becomes the more we need physical manifestations of achievements and excellence.
Attached to the Apple Store decision were concerns about commercialising pubic space and visualisations by Foster & Partners reveal an imposing scheme on a prime location in the centre of the city. However, examining an image with the current building and the proposal side to side, I am not so sure it is really reducing the quality of the space. Although Tim Cook might not enjoy these news I’m sure the guys at Foster's are busy celebrating the Stirling Prize rather than worrying about this.
AJ Timeline:
26 April, 2016 - go-ahead
3 June, 2016 - King of Sweden speaks up
15 June, 2016 - Chipperfield fires back
23 May, 2018 - Court says no
26 Oct, 2018 - City says no