Tallkrogen

Hidden within Stockholm’s embrace lies Tallkrogen, a name that translates to “Pine Inn”. This charming suburb, however, offers more than just pines. Its story intertwines with the ambition of Stockholm to provide affordable housing for its working-class families in the early 20th century. Tallkrogen stands as a testament to this social endeavor, a unique blend of architectural design and community spirit. Tallkrogen’s construction began in 1933, following successful cottage projects in Olovslund and Pungpinan. These earlier projects had demonstrated the effectiveness of municipal loans, covering up to 90% of the construction costs, approximately 10,000 SEK at that time. The remaining costs were manageable, often covered by the builders’ own labor. This model was replicated in Tallkrogen, making homeownership a reality for many. Unlike the organic street layouts of older garden cities or the rigid avenues of Norra Ängby, Tallkrogen took a distinctive form. The houses, small and charming, line curved streets, creating the unique shape of a stadium. The streets themselves pay homage to athletic pioneers like P H Ling and Viktor Balck, while the blocks bear the names of various athletic events. Around 950 houses comprise Tallkrogen. Deviating from the earlier preference for one-and-a-half-story structures, single-story buildings were erected at the heart of Tallkrogen. The periphery, however, features two-story houses. An innovative approach using prefabricated elements, with windows, doors, and even concrete block chimneys already in place, sped up construction. By 1943, Tallkrogen was complete. The use of prefabrication, while efficient, initially resulted in a certain uniformity. Later additions and individual modifications have since remedied this, adding character and individuality to the houses. Today, the city strives to preserve the original spirit of Tallkrogen, particularly the rear aspects of the houses, a nod to the collaborative effort that brought this charming community to life.