The Tjolöholm estate dates back to the 13th century, when it was mentioned in the Danish King Valdemar’s land registry. In 1897 the Dicksons set up a competition for a design of an Elizabethan Castle. Wahlman’s entry ‘Hobgoblin’ came in second place, but it was him who received the commission. The majority of his inspiration came from the Arts and Crafts movement’s fondness for natural materials and high quality artisan handcrafts. Though Wahlman was clearly inspired by the British ideals, he never actually visited Great Britain until 1900.

Shortly after the building work began, James Fredrik Dickson (1844 – 1898) passed away. Blanche Dickson (1856 – 1906) continued the castle’s building work and in 1904 the castle was finished, and the old manor pulled down.

The castle’s building plan is creative and complex. The building is carefully divided in different sections for nobility, guests, children and servants. Both the interior and exterior of the castle are very detailed, and display a high level of quality handicraft. The Elizabethan façade has hints of Art Nouveau style, and the flowing lines and stylised flower and plant themes reoccur throughout the whole castle.