Master's thesis | Johanna Grossmann | 4th semester | Summer Semester 2020

"Brännmästarna" refers to the building Kvarnby Ångbränneri - a Swedish distillery from 1900. The property is located in the Skåne region in southern Sweden. The area is known for its breathtaking coastal scenery, characterized by field and forest sections, as well as historic buildings. The Kvarnby distillery was intact until 1971, when it was closed by order due to a government decision to centralize all distilleries in the area. In order to preserve the cultural heritage of the Swedish liquor tradition, the old distillery building is being transformed into a multi-concept domicile for locals and visitors.

The Brännmästarna concept picks up where the original building concept left off. Converting a former distillery into a hotel seems to make sense, as the spacious interiors and often secluded location represent a special exclusivity. Since the area is considered an attractive tourist destination, bed and breakfasts are in high demand. This can create an attractive place that invites both locals and visitors to enjoy the rural idyll.

The Bed & Breakfast, including café, bar and herb manufactory, impresses with an open floor plan that shows off the characteristic building structures to their best advantage. Modern openings generate bright interiors and visual relationships between the floors. The light cannons in the attic, as well as the large round window in the living area, are a special feature. Several retreats as well as a fitness area and a sauna with access to the spacious garden await guests. The manufactory offers regional herbs for the refinement of schnapps. Workshops and tastings on the distilling and seasoning process can become additional attractions for a visit. Materials such as wood, stone and lime plaster dominate the design to emphasize the natural character. Brännmästarna is a modern domicile for young and old. It carries the history of the old distillery and leads it into the future.

The project was supervised by Prof. Jens Betha and Prof. Andreas Kretzer.

International Master of Interior-Architectural Design