From machine hall to dining area
Sandvik underwent a comprehensive transformation when an old machine hall was converted into a bright and functional dining area. Open spaces were created that could be divided by curtains, offering flexibility and an airy atmosphere.
Soeco contributed several custom-built solutions to create a unique and sustainable interior. Among other things, the conference tables were built by us using bases from an IT company in Copenhagen. These bases, originally from tables that had never been sold in their entirety, were powder-coated in black and fitted with new tops made from plywood and linoleum, providing a sleek and functional design. To complement the tables, we selected refurbished chairs from Gazzda.
In the main area of the dining room, we added our touch to the details. The round tables, with bases from Linné University in Kalmar, were fitted with Valchromat tops, giving an industrial feel that matched the building. To enhance the comfort of the Thonet chairs, which originally had wooden seats, we added padding and upholstery.
One of the most striking features of the project was the bar counter, designed by the renowned architect Gert Wingårdh. It originally came from the Emporia shopping center, and we custom-cut it to fit with the adjacent columns, then combined it with sturdy column feet that we had repurposed from a fast-food restaurant in Jönköping. For this modern and industrial bar counter, we chose Revolver bar stools from HAY, which are usually not available in upholstery. We customized them with wooden tops, padding, and upholstery for a more inviting look.
We wanted to create a warm and cozy feeling in the lounge corner, where we made new leather cushions for two armchairs by Mårten Cyrén. To match the design, we created a coffee table in Valchromat, inspired by Alvar Aalto’s iconic vase, and equipped it with legs made from rebar to enhance the industrial feel. The walls behind the lounge group were covered in oak panels, made in our own carpentry workshop, giving the room both warmth and a more natural touch.
Near the lounge, we built a seating bench with custom cushions in fabric and stitched leather back cushions. We also constructed tables using bases from Linné University with Valchromat tops, creating a cohesive expression in the transition from the lounge to the dining area.
To meet the heavy usage of a public dining area, we upholstered all fabric-covered furniture with a durable Aquaclean fabric with 250,000 Martindale rubs, in a varying gray scale. The project was carried out throughout in muted tones of gray and brown to create a calm and inviting environment, with the exception of a coat rack from Karl Andersson & Söner, which was accented with a sharp red contrast.
The result is a harmonious and functional dining area that not only reflects Sandvik’s values of sustainability and innovation but also offers an inspiring environment for both employees and guests.
