Report: Commoning the Heritage Norrahammar

How can former industrial sites develop and become shared resources for the future? And what role can artistic and exploratory processes play in understanding, activating and transforming these environments?

In ArkDes’ practice-based research project Commoning the Heritage: Norrahammar, the architecture and art team TEJA explored these questions, using the former industrial site in Norrahammar, Jönköping, as a case study.

Through architectural analysis, artistic practice and site-based investigation, the team examined how these methods can contribute new perspectives in the early stages of urban development. As part of the project, TEJA organised a lantern parade in January 2026 in close collaboration with local stakeholders. During the event, the industrial site was temporarily opened to the public, who were invited to experience and explore its spatial relationships and imagine possible future uses.

TEJA’s research is now presented in a report. It highlights both the material structures of the buildings and landscape, and the stories, experiences and relationships that have shaped the site over time. The report also presents possible directions and strategies for the future development and management of the area, while raising broader questions about how post-industrial environments can be preserved, adapted and transformed.

The report serves as a foundation for continued dialogue about the future of the site. The findings also demonstrate how artistic practices and exploratory design processes can strengthen collaboration across municipal departments and contribute new tools for urban development, both locally and nationally.

Commoning the Heritage: Norrahammar is part of ArkDes’ research focus Transformation and builds on knowledge developed through the practice-based research project Commoning the Heritage, a collaboration between ArkDes, the Municipality of Robertsfors and the Swedish National Heritage Board.