Landmark Water Tower design

The coastal city of Varberg, Sweden has unveiled a monumental water tower

The coastal city of Varberg, Sweden, recently unveiled a new landmark water tower, ‘Våga’, designed by White Arkitekter. The striking, wave-shaped concrete structure was commissioned to replace the city’s old tower, offering five times the capacity of the previous tower whilst serving as a monumental reflection of  Varberg's deep connection to the drinking water and the sea.   

The water tower measures 187 meters in length and 9 meters in width and consists of nine prominent pillars designed to support the water reservoir, with the central pillar uniquely accommodating an elevator and staircase. Våga’s elongated, wave-inspired silhouette challenges the traditional water tower architecture by creating a dynamic visual experience that changes with the viewer's perspective and time of day.

All these elements – the slender shape, wave motif, concave façade, and interplay of shadows – make the tower appear entirely different depending on the time of day and viewing angle. This dynamic ensures the tower never ceases to surprise. PER HULTCRANTZ, LEAD ARCHITECT, SUCCEEDING MATTIAS LIND

Beyond its functional purpose, Våga enriches the surrounding landscape. In addition to the tower, the site provides a natural vantage point, offering sweeping views of the distant sea. The area around the tower has been carefully landscaped to blend seamlessly with its environment and the service road has been covered with topsoil, transforming it into a discreet, green gravel path.

Våga’s striking architecture not only fulfills functional needs with its increased capacity and ease of maintenance but also serves as a symbol of modernity. The tower has gained internationally notoriety for redefining the future of water tower designs.