2025 Guest Researchers Selected to Explore the ArkDes Collections

Kommunhus, kommunalhus, stadshus: the architecture of Swedish democracy

Anna Livia Vørsel, PhD candidate

The project proposes an archival study of municipal administration buildings constructed between the 1930s and 1970s across Sweden. By examining the architecture of these buildings at various scales—as places where communal life is defined and governed—the project aims to spark a discussion about what democratic spaces might look like today, how we manage public and private life, and the role of architects and architecture in shaping these conditions.

Motivation for selection, as stated by the ArkDes assessment group

The applicant raises a highly relevant question: exploring the role of architects in defining the physical spaces for democratic debate and dialogue. The application demonstrates a solid understanding of the current research landscape and clear insight into which research materials in the ArkDes collections are available.

Edvin Engström’s villas: single-family housing architecture and the emergence of the Swedish welfare state during the interwar period (1918-1939)

Jelrik Hupkes, M.A.

This project aims to study material in the ArkDes collections related to the architect Edvin Engström, in order to gain a deeper understanding of his role in the development of single-family housing architecture in Stockholm during the interwar period. Engström was a key figure in the development of housing areas and is best known for his functionalist architecture. Relevant archival material will be identified and analyzed with a focus on Engström’s role in this development, as well as the social and ideological ideas that inspired him. The project thereby aims to contribute to ArkDes’ collection exhibition and offer deeper insight into the collections more broadly.

Motivation for selection, as stated by the ArkDes assessment group

According to Statistics Sweden (SCB), 51% of Sweden’s population lives in single-family homes (row houses, villas, link-detached houses). This represents a field of significant relevance and public interest. The applicant convincingly presents how Edvin Engström’s work emerged from the ideals of the developing welfare state.