A unique architectural project is underway in Sweden, aiming to create the world’s largest wooden city in the heart of Stockholm’s southern suburb of Sickla. The ambitious development, known as Stockholm Wood City, is set to redefine sustainable urban living with a sprawling footprint of 250,000 square metres.
The project, led by Swedish property developer Atrium Ljungberg, began construction in 2024, with the first phase expected to be completed by the end of 2025. Once finished, the new district will accommodate 2,000 residential units and 7,000 office spaces, along with a wide range of shops, restaurants, schools, and cultural venues, all designed to be within walking distance of each other.
Designed as a “five-minute city,” the concept prioritises convenience and sustainability. The layout ensures that residents and workers can easily access everyday essentials, promoting a car-free lifestyle in a vibrant, community-focused environment.
This development stands out because of its exclusive use of wood as the primary construction material. Atrium Ljungberg believes that timber-based architecture offers many benefits for the environment and the well-being of the people living and working within it. Wooden structures are known for improving air quality, reducing stress, and absorbing carbon dioxide, making them a viable solution for future urban expansion.
In addition, wooden construction allows for quieter building sites and significantly reduces the number of heavy vehicle movements during development. The build is also expected to progress swiftly, with plans to add one new floor to the buildings every week once vertical construction begins.
Sickla, already home to over 400 businesses, will see its wooden transformation integrate seamlessly with its existing commercial and cultural infrastructure. The area also features Sweden’s third-largest shopping centre, bringing further amenities to the doorstep of future residents and workers.
The first homes are expected to be ready by early 2026, with the residential segment set to be delivered ahead of the office spaces. The developers aim for the project to serve as a blueprint for a new generation of cities that balance climate responsibility with human-centred design.
This innovative venture arrives at a time when major urban developments are gaining momentum globally. In the UK, actor Robert De Niro is backing the tallest skyscraper outside London, Nobu Manchester, featuring a hotel, homes, and a signature restaurant across 76 storeys. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has commenced construction on what is being billed as the world’s largest building.
