Winner: Heritage project of the year 2025. White Arkitekter, owner Higab and Skeppsviken have undertaken the careful restoration of the iconic fish and seafood hall, Feskekôrka, in Gothenburg, Sweden.

Originally designed by Victor von Gegerfelt, Feskekôrka (Fish Church) opened in 1874 and draws its inspiration from Norse stave churches and neo-Gothic aesthetics. These influences gave rise to the building's colloquial name, "Feskekôrka".

Property owner Higab initiated the renovation, bringing together contractors, heritage specialists and technical consultants, with the shared goal of revitalising this much-loved landmark.

Although preservation aspects have been central, the project's intention has not been to fully restore the building to its original appearance.

Instead, the goal was to create a cohesive character that captures the building's unique atmosphere, embodying both robustness and complexity: a refined simplicity.

Judge comments:  "This project serves as a perfect example of how stripping back, rather than needlessly adding, can create clarity. The result is a clear and rational building that celebrates both its history and future use."

Studio: White Arkitekter
Project: Feskekôrka
Credits: Higab and Skeppsviken