Bricks of red-brown tell a story. They whisper of a time when H\u00f6gdalshallen rose as a beacon of recreation. This is H\u00f6gdalshallen. It is more than just a sports center. It is a landmark that has served generations of Stockholmers.
H\u00f6gdalshallen’s story begins in the late 1950s. The city planners envisioned H\u00f6gdalen as a modern suburb. They looked to V\u00e4llingby Centrum for inspiration. The plan included shops, cinemas, churches, and a sports hall. It was intended to include a swimming pool. This foresight led to the creation of H\u00f6gdalshallen.
\u00c5ke E. Lindqvist was the architect entrusted with this task. Lindqvist designed a two-story building. The swimming pool was placed on the upper level. The building’s design is distinctive. A raw concrete volume protrudes. It clearly marks the location of the swimming hall. The building’s entrance side features horizontal brown-painted panels. These panels add a touch of warmth to the structure. The lower level’s facades were originally bare concrete. They were covered with dark brown clinker tiles in the early 1990s. The other facades feature red-brown brick.
In 1971 H\u00f6gdalshallen opened its doors. The city of Stockholm initially managed it. The facility quickly became a popular spot for locals. It offered a wide range of activities. There was swimming, sports, and recreation.
However, challenges arose. In 2012, the company Actic took over operations. Sadly, they did not maintain the facility well. The city had to step in. H\u00f6gdalshallen closed for extensive renovations.
After a multi-year renovation, H\u00f6gdalshallen reopened in the autumn of 2022. The building retains its original character. The Stockholm City Museum recognizes its historical and cultural value. It has been “green-marked”. This designation protects its unique features.
Inside H\u00f6gdalshallen you will find many facilities. There is a 25-meter swimming pool with a diving tower. The water temperature is consistently around 27 degrees Celsius. There is also an adventure pool for children. For relaxation, there are dry and steam saunas. A relaxation area features a bubble pool. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy a 19×39 meter sports hall. It has seating for 200 spectators. Smaller rooms are available for various exercise activities.
H\u00f6gdalshallen stands as a testament to thoughtful urban planning. It showcases architectural vision. More importantly, it represents a community’s commitment to health and well-being. Today, H\u00f6gdalshallen continues to serve the residents of H\u00f6gdalen. It provides a space for recreation. It is a place for community gathering. It remains a cherished landmark in southern Stockholm.