On the fifth floor of one of the Armed Forces’ old barracks at Kårbacken, shouts in Japanese can be heard. With great concentration, a group of children practice karate and body control in the dojo.
Together with associations and companies in the area, the real estate company Pionjären has created a place for activity and the joy of movement. The buildings were constructed at the beginning of the last century. When the regiments Ing 3 and AF 1 were decommissioned almost 20 years ago, the properties were sold. Since then, the buildings have stood empty or been used as storage while waiting for adaptation to new activities.
“We saw enormous potential in these stylish buildings,” says Kim Sundberg, CEO of Pionjären. But the changes wouldn’t happen by themselves. The buildings needed extensive renovations to be adapted for new activities.
MAJOR RENOVATIONS
The Boden-based real estate company Pionjären acquired the former defense barracks and office buildings with surrounding structures. Soon they saw opportunities to create an active meeting place for the city’s associations.
“We saw enormous potential in these stylish buildings,” says Kim Sundberg, CEO of Pionjären.
But the changes wouldn’t happen by themselves. The buildings needed extensive renovations to be adapted for new activities.
Extensive work began on several of the properties on Pontonjärvägen. Among other things, new systems for heating, electricity, and ventilation were installed in several of the buildings. Roofs, windows, and facades were refurbished, and the buildings were made accessible.
“We wanted to create an inclusive place for movement and physical activity. Children and young people with different backgrounds should be able to come here, train, and develop in community with others.”
FIRE AND FLAMES
The old buildings at Kårbacken have been given new life. Instead of recruits, children and young people now run between the houses, on their way to various leisure activities.
Boden’s karate club has groups for both children and adults. Previously, the club was located in Prästholmsskolan’s gymnasium. There, the association also shared space with other sports. A couple of years ago, the club started looking for something new. Arthur Bodén is the main person responsible for the club’s youth activities for 10-13 year olds.
“We got in touch with Pionjären and heard about their plans. When we then visited the house at Kårbacken, we realized that this would really suit our activities. It was almost too good to be true.”
At the beginning of 2024, the reconstruction and adaptation of the old military barracks into suitable spaces began. To maximize the use of the premises, a climbing section was also included in the karate club’s activities.
COMMUNITY AND INCLUSION
Here, spaces were created for karate and free climbing, a kitchenette, and a gathering area. The floor between the fourth and fifth floors in the building was opened up, and a climbing hall with an eight-meter ceiling height was built.
“This is the best thing that has happened to our club. Now, Boden’s climbing-interested youth no longer need to travel away to train. I would say we have the country’s finest facilities for karate and climbing.”
Arthur Bodén is passionate about giving children and young people the opportunity for an active leisure time. He also emphasizes the importance of meaningful occupation to counteract exclusion and segregation.
“Through association life, newcomers get a way into society. Kårbacken brings together a range of different activities for physical activity and community. The area is well on its way to becoming an equivalent to our business park, but with an emphasis on movement and well-being.”
A BREATHING SPACE
Angelica Nyström and Johanna Åstrand run Studio Sansa. They were looking for larger and more suitable premises when they got in touch with the real estate company.
“We were presented with the premises and fell in love immediately,” says Johanna. “The building has such character with large, beautiful halls and high windows. The location is also just right for our visitors.”
Since the beginning of the year, the studio has been located in the building that previously housed the officers’ mess and office building. Here, various promotional and preventive measures within holistic health, yoga classes, and different types of treatments are offered.
“What Pionjären has created at Kårbacken gives new oxygen to Boden,” says Angelica. Many describe the area as a breathing space.
IMPORTANT PARKING
In a former riding house, there is now Kårbacken’s Restaurant and Event. Cheer Future is located in a former gymnasium in the area. The study association Medborgarskolan has course rooms in the building next door, and in the same building is Dance Direction, an association for dance and acrobatics. Catrin Johansson is the operations manager and instructor.
“Previously, we were in a small basement. Now we have several nice dance halls with high ceilings and lovely windows. We are very satisfied with the renovations and enjoy the positive atmosphere in the area. Pionjären has done a fantastic job.”
The large drill ground in the middle between the houses serves as a parking lot. Many at Kårbacken particularly highlight the importance of smooth parking areas.
“It’s absolutely crucial for our visitors to have somewhere to park their car when they come,” says Catrin Johansson.
NEW HOPE FOR THE FUTURE
Kim Sundberg himself grew up in Boden. Now he is happy to contribute with a place where children and young people can move around and have fun together. He also sees a municipality where pride is growing.
“Much has been about dismantling in recent decades. Our old military buildings bear witness to this not least. But now we’re turning it into something positive. Together with everyone here at Kårbacken and the whole city, we’re creating new hope for the future.
TEXT: ANNA ALMQVIST
