A wave-like reservoir crafted from concrete and elevated on nine sturdy columns, Våga Water Tower stands as a striking creation by the Swedish studio White Arkitekter in Varberg, Sweden. Nestled atop a hill in the quaint village of Träslöv, this architectural marvel has been designed to address the growing water needs of the municipality, which has seen a surge in population since the turn of the millennium.
The primary ambition behind White Arkitekter’s design was to establish a functional yet sculptural landmark that would capture the attention of passersby. Its elevated position ensures visibility from the bustling E6 motorway and the surrounding residential areas, making it a prominent feature in the landscape. The studio envisions this tower as a pioneering example of how water towers can transcend their utilitarian purpose and embrace aesthetic appeal.
Agnes Orstadius, an architect at the studio, expressed the intention behind the design: “Våga holds a prominent place in the landscape, but the tower is also designed to be appreciated up close.” The aspiration was to create a structure that not only serves its purpose but also remains visually captivating for generations to come.
The design for Våga Water Tower was unveiled by White Arkitekter in 2018, following their victory in an invited competition organized by the municipal water company Vivab. The challenge called for a landmark structure constructed entirely of concrete, capable of holding an impressive 10,000 cubic meters of water—five times the capacity of the original tower.
White Arkitekter’s proposal was chosen for its elegant, undulating form, stretching 187 meters in length and 9 meters in width. This design pays homage to Varberg’s coastal environment, seamlessly integrating with the natural surroundings. The name “Våga,” which translates to “wave” in Swedish, also carries the connotation of daring, reflecting the innovative spirit behind the project.
The sleek, elongated design embodies a fresh perspective on the concept of a water tower, balancing both functionality and ease of maintenance, according to Margareta Björksund-Tuominen, a representative from Vivab. The Våga Water Tower features a gracefully undulating concrete reservoir, elegantly supported by nine slender columns. Notably, the central column is slightly expanded to accommodate an elevator and staircase, enhancing accessibility.
The reservoir is ingeniously segmented into eight distinct parts, each boasting a concave facade that plays with light and shadow throughout the day. Lead architect Per Hultcrantz emphasized that these design elements—the slender silhouette, wave-like motif, and the concave surfaces—transform the tower’s appearance depending on the time of day and the viewer’s perspective. “This dynamic ensures the tower never ceases to surprise,” he remarked.
Crafted with precision, the concrete structure was cast against form-plywood sheets, resulting in a remarkably smooth finish. The meticulous alignment of all joints was intentional, aimed at creating a harmonious overall impression that captivates the eye. This attention to detail is further enhanced by the plugs used to fill the holes left by formwork ties, which the design studio claims helps in “eliminating unwanted shadow effects.”
Positioned beside an existing land plateau, the Våga Water Tower offers an accessible viewpoint for visitors, allowing them to appreciate the structure while enjoying sweeping vistas of the sea. This thoughtful placement invites exploration and admiration from various angles, enhancing the overall experience.
Surrounding the tower is a vibrant landscape of wildflowers, carefully sown in collaboration with Varberg’s municipal ecologist. This natural setting not only beautifies the area but also promotes local biodiversity, creating a harmonious blend of architecture and nature.
Completing the project is a service road designed as a simple gravel path, which complements the overall aesthetic while ensuring easy access. This understated approach allows the tower and its surrounding environment to take center stage, inviting visitors to engage with both the structure and the landscape in a meaningful way.
In essence, Våga Water Tower is not just a functional water reservoir; it is a testament to the idea that infrastructure can possess beauty and significance. With its unique design and thoughtful execution, it stands as a beacon of modern architecture, poised to inspire future developments in the realm of public utilities.