Oscar Engelbert has spent the last two decades developing residential and commercial properties with a strong focus on architectural design, material integrity, and urban relevance. His work, which began in Stockholm and has since expanded to major U.S. markets, reflects a consistent effort to align real estate development with long-term cultural and environmental context.
Engelbert first came to public attention in the early 2000s through a series of adaptive reuse projects in central Stockholm. These early developments involved the careful restoration of former industrial buildings, transforming them into modern residences while preserving their historical character. The approach was notable for its restraint and attention to detail, favoring natural materials, clean lines, and spatial clarity. These projects quickly gained visibility within Sweden’s design community and contributed to a wider conversation about the value of design-driven housing.
His work gradually evolved to include ground-up developments in collaboration with international architecture firms. Among the most prominent are 79&Park, designed by Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), and Norra Tornen, designed by OMA and Reinier de Graaf. Both projects received international recognition for their architectural innovation and for introducing new forms of residential living to Stockholm.
79&Park, located on the edge of Stockholm’s Gärdet park, features a terraced, cedar-clad structure that emphasizes greenery, light, and openness. The design integrates the building into its surroundings while offering residents privacy and a strong connection to the landscape. It received several awards, including honors from the International Property Awards and Architizer A+.
Norra Tornen, a pair of high-rise towers completed in 2020, introduced a new typology to the city’s skyline. Built using prefabricated concrete modules, the project was recognized with the International High-Rise Award for its combination of bold form, construction efficiency, and livability.
In 2022, Engelbert shifted his focus away from new development in Sweden. Responding to changes in the European market and broader economic conditions, he redirected his attention to the United States. Working alongside his wife and business partner, Giovanna Engelbert, he began acquiring and repositioning commercial properties in Los Angeles.
The couple’s work in the U.S. includes the redevelopment of 1601 Vine Street in Hollywood and the acquisition of 331 N Maple Drive in Beverly Hills. Both properties were purchased during a period of market uncertainty and are being reoriented to serve creative and fashion-oriented tenants. These projects reflect a shared interest in adapting spaces to new uses, with attention to both cultural fit and long-term value.
Together, Oscar and Giovanna Engelbert approach real estate as a form of cultural infrastructure—where design, function, and human experience intersect. As they continue to expand their presence in the United States, their work remains centered on quality, adaptability, and meaningful architectural expression.
