New life for empty apartments
In november 2025, Magnus Kinnmark, CEO of Workers Hotel, and Christina Johansson, CEO of LysekilsBostäder, met to look at new spaces and plan the next steps for Lysekilshemmet. They discussed everything from fire safety to how the collaboration can become even smoother going forward.
A collaboration that started with timing
The relationship began in 2018 when apartments on Kungsgatan stood empty during a renovation. At the same time, Workers Hotel needed housing for a major shutdown at Preemraff. The timing matched perfectly and became the start of a long-term working relationship.
Helping each other meet real needs
Since then, Workers Hotel has been able to access housing when project demand is high, while LysekilsBostäder has reduced vacancy and made use of apartments that would otherwise stand empty.
“In periods when demand for our housing is lower, it’s valuable to be able to rent to Workers Hotel. Our priority is always the residents of Lysekil, and we offer apartments to them at least three times before renting them out to Workers Hotel,” says Christina Johansson.
Keeping neighborhoods active
LysekilsBostäder works to keep at least one renovated, move-in-ready apartment of each size on Badhusberget. But demand can be low at times, making it impossible to renovate everything at once. Here, Workers Hotel plays an important role. By renting apartments in existing condition for time-limited project stays, they help create a good balance between occupancy and economy.
“A good example is Badhusberget and Lysekilshemmet. These areas had many empty apartments, but with Workers Hotel on site, the neighborhoods feel alive again. Lights are on, people are moving around. Neighbors have even told us how quiet it was when project workers left. You might expect temporary guests to cause issues, but it’s been the opposite,” says Christina.
Lysekilshemmet finds a new purpose
Lysekilshemmet was originally bought to be rebuilt into modern rentals, based on expected growth tied to Preem’s planned investment. When that investment didn’t happen, the plans changed. Workers Hotel stepping in to rent the building gave LysekilsBostäder both stability and time to shape a long-term direction.
“Some parts of the building may become senior housing in the future, while other areas will continue to be rented out to Workers Hotel. These will now be upgraded,” Christina explains.
A strong match of needs and mindset
The collaboration works because both sides meet each other's needs at the right time: during renovations, during low-demand periods, and in buildings still under development.
“Workers Hotel prefers to rent rather than buy, and when our needs align, it’s a natural win-win,” says Magnus Kinnmark. “What I value most about LysekilsBostäder and Christina is their willingness to think differently. Our collaboration is built on honesty, respect, and a shared goal to create value for both companies and the community. That’s how it should be.”