Visions in the North step 2

In Norrbotten and Västerbotten, some of the largest investments ever in green transition, technology and infrastructure are currently underway. The investment places great demands on more housing, attractive living environments and long-term sustainability. How can we create sustainable housing in a short period of time while utilising existing resources and creating good quality living environments in the long term?

Good living environments are shaped by continuity, multiple perspectives and local knowledge. With this in mind, the work continues with the project Visions in the North step 2, an independent part of Visions: in the North, which was carried out in 2022. Behind the initiative is the Council for Sustainable Cities, led by ArkDes, in collaboration with Boden, Gällivare, Kiruna, Luleå, Skellefteå and Umeå.

Through a call for proposals in spring 2024, the Council for Sustainable Cities selected six interdisciplinary teams of designers, architects, designers and other innovation actors to take on concrete sites in the municipalities. The starting point is to create sustainable living environments. The initiative aims to explore and bring new eyes into the urban design process and find new ways to create long-term management and development strategies.

Process – the work of the teams

The project consists of two phases. The first phase of the project started in May 2024 and ended in January 2025. During this period, the six selected teams have worked in and with their respective municipalities. The teams have inventoried and analysed locations, conditions and needs. Based on the analysis, they have developed concrete ideas and proposals for a development and management plan in response to the municipality’s challenge.

The teams’ proposals include ideas on how to revitalise 550 derelict houses through a new business model, how to clean up an industrial area using tens of thousands of green plants, and how to create a sparkling city square out of snow and ice. Learn more about the teams’ innovative work and reports below.

In February 2025, the project will enter phase two. For phase two, a maximum of three of the six teams will be selected to take their work forward. Through prototyping, they will work with municipalities to explore how temporary solutions can be used for long-term planning and development strategies.