The building's former owner and tenant

The building was previously owned by Wallenstam. Mats, who co-founded Hammarviken together with Mona Rydhede, has known Hans Wallenstam since high school. Many years ago, Wallenstam used the building as their headquarters before moving down to Avenyn. In recent years, Wallenstam rented the premises to the University of Gothenburg and the Language Center. However, when Covid-19 spread in Sweden, the premises were no longer used, and the property was subsequently put up for sale.

Mats got wind of the house being on the market and visited the building together with Christoffer Rydhede, founder of Yuncture and also the son of Mats and Mona. They had their first tour of the building and little did they know that just a couple of years later, they would be spending their days there.

"There were many visits to the house, and we began playing with the idea. What should we do with this large property? Should we use it as our own headquarters? Should we rent out parts of the building? Maybe it’s the perfect place for Yuncture to grow?" There were many questions, says Josefin Rydhede, Communications Manager at Hammarviken.

To buy or not to buy?

Mats, Mona, Josefin, Christoffer, and Sofia explored the building and all its corners, discussions took place, and Mats asked for "index" from everyone. "Index" is a method Mats likes to informally use for big and small decisions. It involves each person individually rating how much they believe in an idea. The index ranges from 0-100, is highly individual, and, best of all – it is non-binding. It’s simply an easy way to share thoughts in a manner that’s easy to digest.

Christoffer and Sofia were positive, and so was Mats. Josefin and Mona, however, were more hesitant. Josefin and Mona were worried that the family-friendly feeling, both internally and externally, that Hammarviken has would be lost in the grand building in central Gothenburg. The fear was becoming a corporate investment firm where the personal touch wouldn't shine through as much. But there was no denying the enormous potential they saw in the house.

A few weeks later, in June 2021, the purchase agreement was signed with Hammarviken as the new owner. What actually contributed to the final decision was somewhat unexpected. As you may recall, there was some concern about no longer being perceived as an investment company with its heart in the right place. The truth is, Christoffer has always walked around the office in socks, no matter who he’s meeting with. Sofia then made the wonderful comment: "As long as Christoffer continues to walk around the office in socks, we can never become too fancy." And isn’t that the truth? It’s not the building or the location that matters – it’s the people who fill it.

The building's former owner and tenant

The building was previously owned by Wallenstam. Mats, who co-founded Hammarviken together with Mona Rydhede, has known Hans Wallenstam since high school. Many years ago, Wallenstam used the building as their headquarters before moving down to Avenyn. In recent years, Wallenstam rented the premises to the University of Gothenburg and the Language Center. However, when Covid-19 spread in Sweden, the premises were no longer used, and the property was subsequently put up for sale.

Mats got wind of the house being on the market and visited the building together with Christoffer Rydhede, founder of Yuncture and also the son of Mats and Mona. They had their first tour of the building and little did they know that just a couple of years later, they would be spending their days there.

"There were many visits to the house, and we began playing with the idea. What should we do with this large property? Should we use it as our own headquarters? Should we rent out parts of the building? Maybe it’s the perfect place for Yuncture to grow?" There were many questions, says Josefin Rydhede, Communications Manager at Hammarviken.

To buy or not to buy?

Mats, Mona, Josefin, Christoffer, and Sofia explored the building and all its corners, discussions took place, and Mats asked for "index" from everyone. "Index" is a method Mats likes to informally use for big and small decisions. It involves each person individually rating how much they believe in an idea. The index ranges from 0-100, is highly individual, and, best of all – it is non-binding. It’s simply an easy way to share thoughts in a manner that’s easy to digest.

Christoffer and Sofia were positive, and so was Mats. Josefin and Mona, however, were more hesitant. Josefin and Mona were worried that the family-friendly feeling, both internally and externally, that Hammarviken has would be lost in the grand building in central Gothenburg. The fear was becoming a corporate investment firm where the personal touch wouldn't shine through as much. But there was no denying the enormous potential they saw in the house.

A few weeks later, in June 2021, the purchase agreement was signed with Hammarviken as the new owner. What actually contributed to the final decision was somewhat unexpected. As you may recall, there was some concern about no longer being perceived as an investment company with its heart in the right place. The truth is, Christoffer has always walked around the office in socks, no matter who he’s meeting with. Sofia then made the wonderful comment: "As long as Christoffer continues to walk around the office in socks, we can never become too fancy." And isn’t that the truth? It’s not the building or the location that matters – it’s the people who fill it.

The building's former owner and tenant

The building was previously owned by Wallenstam. Mats, who co-founded Hammarviken together with Mona Rydhede, has known Hans Wallenstam since high school. Many years ago, Wallenstam used the building as their headquarters before moving down to Avenyn. In recent years, Wallenstam rented the premises to the University of Gothenburg and the Language Center. However, when Covid-19 spread in Sweden, the premises were no longer used, and the property was subsequently put up for sale.

Mats got wind of the house being on the market and visited the building together with Christoffer Rydhede, founder of Yuncture and also the son of Mats and Mona. They had their first tour of the building and little did they know that just a couple of years later, they would be spending their days there.

"There were many visits to the house, and we began playing with the idea. What should we do with this large property? Should we use it as our own headquarters? Should we rent out parts of the building? Maybe it’s the perfect place for Yuncture to grow?" There were many questions, says Josefin Rydhede, Communications Manager at Hammarviken.

To buy or not to buy?

Mats, Mona, Josefin, Christoffer, and Sofia explored the building and all its corners, discussions took place, and Mats asked for "index" from everyone. "Index" is a method Mats likes to informally use for big and small decisions. It involves each person individually rating how much they believe in an idea. The index ranges from 0-100, is highly individual, and, best of all – it is non-binding. It’s simply an easy way to share thoughts in a manner that’s easy to digest.

Christoffer and Sofia were positive, and so was Mats. Josefin and Mona, however, were more hesitant. Josefin and Mona were worried that the family-friendly feeling, both internally and externally, that Hammarviken has would be lost in the grand building in central Gothenburg. The fear was becoming a corporate investment firm where the personal touch wouldn't shine through as much. But there was no denying the enormous potential they saw in the house.

A few weeks later, in June 2021, the purchase agreement was signed with Hammarviken as the new owner. What actually contributed to the final decision was somewhat unexpected. As you may recall, there was some concern about no longer being perceived as an investment company with its heart in the right place. The truth is, Christoffer has always walked around the office in socks, no matter who he’s meeting with. Sofia then made the wonderful comment: "As long as Christoffer continues to walk around the office in socks, we can never become too fancy." And isn’t that the truth? It’s not the building or the location that matters – it’s the people who fill it.

The building's former owner and tenant

The building was previously owned by Wallenstam. Mats, who co-founded Hammarviken together with Mona Rydhede, has known Hans Wallenstam since high school. Many years ago, Wallenstam used the building as their headquarters before moving down to Avenyn. In recent years, Wallenstam rented the premises to the University of Gothenburg and the Language Center. However, when Covid-19 spread in Sweden, the premises were no longer used, and the property was subsequently put up for sale.

Mats got wind of the house being on the market and visited the building together with Christoffer Rydhede, founder of Yuncture and also the son of Mats and Mona. They had their first tour of the building and little did they know that just a couple of years later, they would be spending their days there.

"There were many visits to the house, and we began playing with the idea. What should we do with this large property? Should we use it as our own headquarters? Should we rent out parts of the building? Maybe it’s the perfect place for Yuncture to grow?" There were many questions, says Josefin Rydhede, Communications Manager at Hammarviken.

To buy or not to buy?

Mats, Mona, Josefin, Christoffer, and Sofia explored the building and all its corners, discussions took place, and Mats asked for "index" from everyone. "Index" is a method Mats likes to informally use for big and small decisions. It involves each person individually rating how much they believe in an idea. The index ranges from 0-100, is highly individual, and, best of all – it is non-binding. It’s simply an easy way to share thoughts in a manner that’s easy to digest.

Christoffer and Sofia were positive, and so was Mats. Josefin and Mona, however, were more hesitant. Josefin and Mona were worried that the family-friendly feeling, both internally and externally, that Hammarviken has would be lost in the grand building in central Gothenburg. The fear was becoming a corporate investment firm where the personal touch wouldn't shine through as much. But there was no denying the enormous potential they saw in the house.

A few weeks later, in June 2021, the purchase agreement was signed with Hammarviken as the new owner. What actually contributed to the final decision was somewhat unexpected. As you may recall, there was some concern about no longer being perceived as an investment company with its heart in the right place. The truth is, Christoffer has always walked around the office in socks, no matter who he’s meeting with. Sofia then made the wonderful comment: "As long as Christoffer continues to walk around the office in socks, we can never become too fancy." And isn’t that the truth? It’s not the building or the location that matters – it’s the people who fill it.

The building's former owner and tenant

The building was previously owned by Wallenstam. Mats, who co-founded Hammarviken together with Mona Rydhede, has known Hans Wallenstam since high school. Many years ago, Wallenstam used the building as their headquarters before moving down to Avenyn. In recent years, Wallenstam rented the premises to the University of Gothenburg and the Language Center. However, when Covid-19 spread in Sweden, the premises were no longer used, and the property was subsequently put up for sale.

Mats got wind of the house being on the market and visited the building together with Christoffer Rydhede, founder of Yuncture and also the son of Mats and Mona. They had their first tour of the building and little did they know that just a couple of years later, they would be spending their days there.

"There were many visits to the house, and we began playing with the idea. What should we do with this large property? Should we use it as our own headquarters? Should we rent out parts of the building? Maybe it’s the perfect place for Yuncture to grow?" There were many questions, says Josefin Rydhede, Communications Manager at Hammarviken.

To buy or not to buy?

Mats, Mona, Josefin, Christoffer, and Sofia explored the building and all its corners, discussions took place, and Mats asked for "index" from everyone. "Index" is a method Mats likes to informally use for big and small decisions. It involves each person individually rating how much they believe in an idea. The index ranges from 0-100, is highly individual, and, best of all – it is non-binding. It’s simply an easy way to share thoughts in a manner that’s easy to digest.

Christoffer and Sofia were positive, and so was Mats. Josefin and Mona, however, were more hesitant. Josefin and Mona were worried that the family-friendly feeling, both internally and externally, that Hammarviken has would be lost in the grand building in central Gothenburg. The fear was becoming a corporate investment firm where the personal touch wouldn't shine through as much. But there was no denying the enormous potential they saw in the house.

A few weeks later, in June 2021, the purchase agreement was signed with Hammarviken as the new owner. What actually contributed to the final decision was somewhat unexpected. As you may recall, there was some concern about no longer being perceived as an investment company with its heart in the right place. The truth is, Christoffer has always walked around the office in socks, no matter who he’s meeting with. Sofia then made the wonderful comment: "As long as Christoffer continues to walk around the office in socks, we can never become too fancy." And isn’t that the truth? It’s not the building or the location that matters – it’s the people who fill it.

The building's former owner and tenant

The building was previously owned by Wallenstam. Mats, who co-founded Hammarviken together with Mona Rydhede, has known Hans Wallenstam since high school. Many years ago, Wallenstam used the building as their headquarters before moving down to Avenyn. In recent years, Wallenstam rented the premises to the University of Gothenburg and the Language Center. However, when Covid-19 spread in Sweden, the premises were no longer used, and the property was subsequently put up for sale.

Mats got wind of the house being on the market and visited the building together with Christoffer Rydhede, founder of Yuncture and also the son of Mats and Mona. They had their first tour of the building and little did they know that just a couple of years later, they would be spending their days there.

"There were many visits to the house, and we began playing with the idea. What should we do with this large property? Should we use it as our own headquarters? Should we rent out parts of the building? Maybe it’s the perfect place for Yuncture to grow?" There were many questions, says Josefin Rydhede, Communications Manager at Hammarviken.

To buy or not to buy?

Mats, Mona, Josefin, Christoffer, and Sofia explored the building and all its corners, discussions took place, and Mats asked for "index" from everyone. "Index" is a method Mats likes to informally use for big and small decisions. It involves each person individually rating how much they believe in an idea. The index ranges from 0-100, is highly individual, and, best of all – it is non-binding. It’s simply an easy way to share thoughts in a manner that’s easy to digest.

Christoffer and Sofia were positive, and so was Mats. Josefin and Mona, however, were more hesitant. Josefin and Mona were worried that the family-friendly feeling, both internally and externally, that Hammarviken has would be lost in the grand building in central Gothenburg. The fear was becoming a corporate investment firm where the personal touch wouldn't shine through as much. But there was no denying the enormous potential they saw in the house.

A few weeks later, in June 2021, the purchase agreement was signed with Hammarviken as the new owner. What actually contributed to the final decision was somewhat unexpected. As you may recall, there was some concern about no longer being perceived as an investment company with its heart in the right place. The truth is, Christoffer has always walked around the office in socks, no matter who he’s meeting with. Sofia then made the wonderful comment: "As long as Christoffer continues to walk around the office in socks, we can never become too fancy." And isn’t that the truth? It’s not the building or the location that matters – it’s the people who fill it.

The building's former owner and tenant

The building was previously owned by Wallenstam. Mats, who co-founded Hammarviken together with Mona Rydhede, has known Hans Wallenstam since high school. Many years ago, Wallenstam used the building as their headquarters before moving down to Avenyn. In recent years, Wallenstam rented the premises to the University of Gothenburg and the Language Center. However, when Covid-19 spread in Sweden, the premises were no longer used, and the property was subsequently put up for sale.

Mats got wind of the house being on the market and visited the building together with Christoffer Rydhede, founder of Yuncture and also the son of Mats and Mona. They had their first tour of the building and little did they know that just a couple of years later, they would be spending their days there.

"There were many visits to the house, and we began playing with the idea. What should we do with this large property? Should we use it as our own headquarters? Should we rent out parts of the building? Maybe it’s the perfect place for Yuncture to grow?" There were many questions, says Josefin Rydhede, Communications Manager at Hammarviken.

To buy or not to buy?

Mats, Mona, Josefin, Christoffer, and Sofia explored the building and all its corners, discussions took place, and Mats asked for "index" from everyone. "Index" is a method Mats likes to informally use for big and small decisions. It involves each person individually rating how much they believe in an idea. The index ranges from 0-100, is highly individual, and, best of all – it is non-binding. It’s simply an easy way to share thoughts in a manner that’s easy to digest.

Christoffer and Sofia were positive, and so was Mats. Josefin and Mona, however, were more hesitant. Josefin and Mona were worried that the family-friendly feeling, both internally and externally, that Hammarviken has would be lost in the grand building in central Gothenburg. The fear was becoming a corporate investment firm where the personal touch wouldn't shine through as much. But there was no denying the enormous potential they saw in the house.

A few weeks later, in June 2021, the purchase agreement was signed with Hammarviken as the new owner. What actually contributed to the final decision was somewhat unexpected. As you may recall, there was some concern about no longer being perceived as an investment company with its heart in the right place. The truth is, Christoffer has always walked around the office in socks, no matter who he’s meeting with. Sofia then made the wonderful comment: "As long as Christoffer continues to walk around the office in socks, we can never become too fancy." And isn’t that the truth? It’s not the building or the location that matters – it’s the people who fill it.

The years at Jolengatan

Previously, both Hammarviken and Yuncture operated out of Jolengatan in Mölndal, in a bright and lovely office. As the companies grew, there was a lot of talk about expanding the building we were in, and we had even progressed to the point where building permits for the extension had been approved, and quotes from contractors had been received. But the project was never started before the purchase of the new property went through.

Hammarviken leaves its mark on the house

"When we first went to the building after the purchase and put the key in the lock, it was with a mix of fear and excitement. We all knew the process would be long until we could move in. But what we didn’t know then was how much work awaited us, and that was probably for the best," says Josefin with a smile.

When we entered the building, we realized it lacked the love it so well deserved. There were many small rooms, lots of walls and corridors, and the life and soul we were convinced once existed were no longer felt – something we wanted to bring back.

The heroes behind the building's renovation

Renovating a property isn’t a one-person job, especially not a property of around 2000 sqm. Since the building is listed, the process is different, but under the leadership of Roger Elmersson, former co-owner of Hammarviken's subsidiary Hällingsjö Hus, the work went smoothly. Architects created new floor plans, a conservator provided opinions, and accessibility consultants gave their input. All to create the best possible environment. After walls were torn down and floors were ripped up, the rebuilding process began.

Mona and Josefin Rydhede, mother and daughter in Hammarviken’s owning family, have always had an eye for color and style, so it was natural for this duo to take on the task of planning, coordinating, and choosing materials, colors, styles, and all other furnishings for the house, both for Hammarviken and Yuncture.

"We worked hard to find a good balance between preserving the history of the house with its charm, while also using today’s technology and functionality, which is necessary for running our businesses," says Josefin. Hammarviken is a family business, and that has to be evident in every room. The lounge on the ground floor should feel like a living room, the kitchen and dining area should be a place where people want to spend time and socialize. The office spaces should feel warm and inviting while being a place where creativity and drive flourish.

"It was incredibly important to us that every visitor feels welcome. Welcome home to us," concludes Mona.

Furthermore, the choice of materials has been important. For Hammarviken, it’s not just about looking good – it should also, as far as possible, be produced in Sweden or Scandinavia, and preferably from recycled materials. Josefin and Mona have therefore spent a lot of time choosing materials and furnishings. One example is our floor, made from recycled plastic from Bolon, a family-owned company in Ulricehamn. Other examples are the Swedish-produced Kolmården marble in our ground-floor restrooms and all the carpentry in the house, made by Asteberg in Hyssna, just 50 km from Gothenburg.

Challenges with the pink house

No project comes without challenges. One challenge for Josefin and Mona was the choice of colors for the walls and floors. Endless color samples were carried from Colorama. Color is tricky, and depending on the different lightings, the colors need to give a homely impression while creating an energizing atmosphere. During the renovations, we also discovered built-in arches, lowered ceilings, hidden walls, and crooked floors, which certainly presented challenges in a process that has been tough but also educational.

"I’ve gained a different understanding of the work. There have been long days and late nights. And a few sleepless nights. Many decisions were made without knowing how it would look when finished, and I have to say, it turned out better than expected despite all the times Mona and I disagreed," says Josefin.

In fact, there’s only one thing that changed during the project, and that’s the wall color on the top floor in Hammarviken’s section, which we call the attic. It was initially painted a white shade, but the contrast with the dark window alcoves was too sharp. Just when the painters were completely done, they realized the mistake.

"After losing a game of rock-paper-scissors, I had to, with my tail between my legs, go up to the painters in the attic and politely ask them to repaint everything in a softer beige color," laughs Mona. "That’s when I was glad we were working with good, flexible, and understanding craftsmen," Mona continues.

Another challenge with the building was the part where Yuncture is now located. When we started the renovations, we didn’t quite know what Yuncture would become. After countless hours of planning, brainstorming sessions, and research, we created a space for entrepreneurs where they have a place to work, be inspired, play, meet, and develop. Yuncture is a place to experience, so come by for a visit! Contact the team here.

Before and after pictures of the building

It wouldn’t feel right to wrap up without giving you a little glimpse of the building before and after the renovation. The before pictures are on the left, and the after pictures on the right. What do you think?

At the very top of the building, what we call the attic, some of our Hammarviken employees are located. It’s our absolute coziest spot, if you ask us. Bright and lovely, a little leafy, and absolutely wonderful. In addition to workspaces, there are three meeting rooms of varying sizes.

Let us invite you to our new home
We love meeting new people, no matter who you are. Why not stop by for a tour and a cup of coffee? Contact one of us, and we’ll arrange a time that suits you. A warm welcome to the pink house at Lennart Torstenssonsgatan 6-8.