The 27-floor Dagens Nyheter Building in Stockholm held the distinction of being the tallest building in Sweden from its completion in 1964 until 2003. Designed by Paul Hedqvist, the structure represents the culmination of a career dedicated to Swedish functionalism, characterized by a rationalist approach to both urban planning and large-scale architectural projects.
Early Career and Education
Born in Stockholm in 1895, Paul Hedqvist received his architectural education at the KTH School of Architecture. He gained early professional experience working for Ragnar Östberg before establishing his own practice in 1924 alongside his partner, David Dahl. His work became firmly aligned with the functionalist movement following his participation in the 1930 Stockholm International Exhibition.
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Throughout the 1930s, Hedqvist secured numerous high-profile state commissions. His output included housing projects, such as the development in Röda Bergen and terraced housing at Ålstensgatan, as well as municipal infrastructure like the Eskilstuna baths and the Uggleviken Reservoir in 1935. During this period, he also completed the Stockholm-Bromma Airport and major bridges, including Västerbron and Tranebergsbron. A notable feature of his 1939 work at St. Erik's Gymnasium in Kungsholmen is the exterior staircase housed within a cylindrical glass volume.
Academic Contributions and Postwar Projects
Beyond his practice, Hedqvist held a professorship at the Royal Swedish Academy of Fine Arts between 1938 and 1948 and served as the city architect of Stockholm. In the postwar era, his work shifted toward significant office towers and sports infrastructure. He designed the cable-supported Hovet stadium in 1955 and the Kockums Building in Malmö. His later projects included the Skatteskrapan office building, completed in 1959, and the Biomedical Centre at Uppsala University, which dates to approximately 1968.
Fast facts
- Born: 1895, Stockholm
- Died: 1977, Stockholm
- Education: KTH School of Architecture
- Notable Works: Skatteskrapan, Dagens Nyheter Tower
- Awards: Prince Eugen Medal (1954)
- Membership: Royal Swedish Academy of Fine Arts
Questions readers ask
What happened to the Skatteskrapan building?
The structure has been converted into student apartments.
Did Paul Hedqvist join the 'Accept!' movement?
No, he chose not to join the other Swedish architects involved in that specific movement.
Achievements
- Notable work: Skatteskrapan
- Notable work: Dagens Nyheter Tower
- Prince Eugen Medal
- Trained at KTH School of Architecture
