World of Volvo Wins the Swedish Architects Västra Götaland Architecture Prize 2025

World of Volvo, the brand new experience centre created jointly by Volvo Cars and Volvo Group, has been awarded the prestigious Västra Götaland Architecture Prize 2025 by Sveriges Arkitekter. The accolade recognises the building’s exceptional architectural expression, its integration into the city of Gothenburg and its bold use of sustainable timber construction. The Prize and Its Significance

The Västra Götaland Architecture Prize is awarded every two years to buildings or building-groups in Sweden’s Västra Götaland region that exemplify high architectural quality and enrich the built environment. In selecting World of Volvo, the jury described it as “a shining lantern on Gothenburg’s horizon – a new landmark for the city and for western Sweden. A tectonic sculpture where nature, humanity and machine converge.”

Operational Details: Design, Construction and Experience

Designed by Henning Larsen, the World of Volvo spans approximately 22,000 m² and opened in April 2024. The architecture emphasises Scandinavian values of openness, movement and connection to nature: the timber structure uses glulam and cross-laminated timber (CLT) and features three monumental tree-trunk-like columns that fan outwards to support a canopy-style roof, creating a building that invokes a forest environment. The centre offers flexible cultural and conference spaces (capacity for up to ~1,100 guests), exhibitions, and event programming.

Economic Impact & Strategic Significance

For Volvo Cars and Volvo Group, the award underscores the strategic importance of architecture and place-making in defining brand identity and stakeholder experience. The building not only serves as a customer and visitor destination, but also supports the city of Gothenburg by providing a new landmark venue and urban meeting place. The recognition will likely increase visibility, strengthen the firm’s sustainability credentials and enhance value for both clients and the public realm.

Why This Matters

• Sustainability & Timber Innovation: Using large-span timber construction in a high-profile project signals timber’s increasing role in major architectural projects.

• Brand & Place Integration: The architecture goes beyond showroom function to become an urban experience, aligning with Volvo’s human-centric values and Swedish design heritage.

• Urban and Cultural Impact: The building contributes to Gothenburg’s event district and public life, fostering new kinds of activity and engagement in the built environment.