Scandinavia’s tallest mixed-use building catalyzes the transformation of Gothenburg’s riverside district. The tower’s design fosters a sense of community while creating a spectacular new landmark.

Conceived to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Gothenburg, Karlatornet is Scandinivia’s tallest building. An elegant and striking form, the tower departs from the city’s traditional low-density development patterns and catalyzes the transformation of the Lindholmen riverside district into a bustling and characterful area with shops, restaurants, and public space.

The tower offers 611 new homes of various apartment types, catering to the needs of the city's residents. The building also incorporates shared amenities that help create a lively community. Additionally, Karlatornet offers visitors and the public a hotel, restaurant, workspace and an observation deck that provides stunning views of Gothenburg.

The ambition for the project was to transform an industrial shipyard area of the city which had been unused and dilapidated for a long time. Given its central location, Serneke saw an opportunity to revitalize the district with new mixed-use functions and much-needed new homes for the city.

Following an international competition, SOM was awarded the project which, at 246 meters tall, marks a shift from traditional development patterns in Sweden. Given that the country's building regulations focus on low and mid-rise buildings, one of the key challenges was to ensure that this typology could establish appropriate sustainable performance benchmarks. SOM focused on efficiency and reduced material use as a key plank in the project’s sustainability strategy, positioning and rotating the building within the site to reduce wind loading. The building also features an ultra-high-performing facade design.

Overall, Karlatornet strengthens Gothenburg as a whole, offering a sustainable model of high-rise living that prioritizes occupant wellbeing and helps to shape the future of the city.