The future of Hästbergadammen - Restoration and re-purposing of an abandoned hydroelectric powerplant

Abstract: This thesis work is an academic study investigating how to transform and re-purpose the abandoned hydroelectric powerplant, Hästbergadammen. The powerplant has been abandoned since the dam collapsed in 2010, and the case of rebuilding it has been in the Land and Environment Court since 2016. The thesis proposes a new purpose for the site. It suggests giving back a public monumental place where the locals affected by the accident finally can get closure. It aims to take into consideration what can be most beneficial from an environmental point of view, for the potential visitors and local inhabitants. The report covers research of the location, and in the end, suggests a new design proposal meant to improve and strengthen the connection to the site´s history. Since it is abandoned, the main goal has been to activate the area and make use of it. This has been achieved by re-programming the location with public programmes to enhance its cultural and natural values. The site is divided into three main parts, the residential building, the Powerhouse, and the spillway. The design proposal focuses on the Powerhouse and how to transform it into a museum and cafe. A thorough investigation of the site has been made by studying the history of the area, the original blueprints, through site visits and by conducting interviews with the locals. Literature about restoration and references of designing with contrast has also been studied. Furthermore, a value assessment of the Cultural property values in the model of Feilden has been carried out in regards to the Powerhouse. The assessment has been used as a framework to evaluate what to preserve, what to remove, and what to add to the project. This thesis explores the meeting between the existing structures and the new proposed design. It aims to enhance the Powerhouse´s original values while at the same time create new values which are adapted to our modern society. The concept brings new life to the powerplant, which will not only continue to tell its history but it also enables use for future generations.