In the student housing area of Colonia in Linköping, what used to be traditional study rooms have been transformed into inspiring time capsules. The idea came from student Amanda, and the result shows how ByggVesta blends creativity, sustainability, and well-being through its Live To Grow concept.
In Colonia, students get to choose their time travel. Here, a creative 1960s vibe with sewing machines and textiles inspires both studying and making.
Photo: Ekenblom & Co
Stepping into the newly renovated study rooms feels like walking straight into the past. Students are greeted by velvet curtains and golden details from the 1940s, bold patterns and sewing machines from the 60s, and neon lights and pop culture from the 80s.
The project is the result of months of work by Amanda, who led the transformation from idea to reality with structure, creativity, and an eye for detail.
The rooms used to be kind of dull, like classrooms. I wanted to create spaces you actually want to stay in. Spaces that spark curiosity and inspire, Amanda says.
From Simple Idea to Immersive Concept
It all started with Amanda’s idea to make the study environment more inspiring. When property manager Rickard Lindström jumped on board, she was given support and trust to develop her concept into a full room for each decade. Today, three rooms are complete: 40s, 60s, and 80s, and more are set to follow in 2026.
The collaboration between student and property manager became a perfect example of how small initiatives can grow into something that boosts both connection and comfort – at the heart of ByggVesta’s Live To Grow philosophy.
Amanda pulled inspiration from magazines, vintage catalogs, and the internet. Even ChatGPT helped date items she found in thrift shops.
“I wanted it to feel authentic, so nearly everything is second hand. I went to shops in Linköping and back home on Gotland – many times.”
Thoughtful Reuse
Sustainability was a key part of the process. Everything from furniture to lighting was reused, and where needed, carpenters and electricians stepped in to reinforce or upgrade items to stand up to daily use.
“When a space feels thoughtfully designed, people take better care of it. You can already see that happening,” Amanda says.
Apart from approving the budget, Rickard Lindström served as a sounding board and driver – but Amanda had the freedom to shape the rooms as she saw fit. Her mom even helped with the decorating on site.
A Space for Belonging and Focus
Creating spaces that support well-being is a cornerstone of ByggVesta’s approach to student housing. Colonia was built on the belief that comfort, community, and smart design lead to better study results and more sustainable living over time – an idea summed up in the company’s Live To Grow concept.
The three study rooms bring that vision to life. By investing in spaces that speak to students, ByggVesta isn’t just encouraging focus, it’s building stronger ties between neighbors.
“We’re seeing that this kind of initiative really boosts both comfort and involvement in the community. When a living space feels personal and well thought out, students take pride in it – and they stay longer,” says Rickard Lindström, the local property manager.
For ByggVesta, that also means economic benefits. A well-cared-for, well-loved home reduces turnover and maintenance costs while adding to the vibrancy and safety of the area.
A Glamorous ’40s, a Playful ’60s, and a High-Energy ’80s
Each room has a spirit of its own.
The 1940s room feels like a chic café, with red velvet chairs, dark wood, and classic design touches. The 60s room explodes with color, inspired by a fashion atelier, complete with fabrics, sewing machines, and garments on hangers. The 80s room captures the era’s energy with neon lights, a tabletop hockey game, and cassette tapes on the walls.
“It’s fun when students tell me they have a favorite room. That’s when I know we really nailed it,” Amanda says.
Next Up: New Decades, Fresh Ideas
The rooms are in regular use – especially the 80s one, designed for group work. Amanda is now preparing to expand the concept, with three more rooms planned for 2026, inspired by the 50s, 70s, and 90s. She’s also creating information materials to help more students discover the rooms, not just those living in the same building.
The project has deepened her interest in sustainability and how to create spaces that inspire and last.
“The best part has been realizing just how much you can do with reuse. What started as a small idea now adds something fun to everyday life for a lot of people,” she says.
For ByggVesta, the project is a reminder of how resident engagement can support both well-being and long-term property management.
Neon lights, mirrors, and pop culture: the 80s room is both practical and full of energy.
