ABOUT US
OUR HISTORY
A celebration of the grandeur of neo-Renaissance architectur
At one of Gothenburg’s most prominent addresses stands the Dicksonska Palace, a masterpiece from 1862 with a history as magnificent as its architecture. Originally built as a residence for Oscar Dickson and his family, the building reflects their English roots. Designed by the renowned English architect William Allen Boulnois—who had previously impressed with Villa Överås for Oscar’s brother James—the palace is a tribute to the family’s wealth and refined taste. With craftsmen and materials flown in from England, the house acquired a distinctly British character, making it a unique feature in Gothenburg’s cityscape.
The palace is a celebration of the grandeur of neo-Renaissance architecture. The façade features a rustic base supporting elegant lines and a refined hipped roof. Upon its inauguration, the interior was among the most extravagant in the city. The rooms were organized around an impressive main staircase that swept visitors up to reception rooms of outstanding splendor—a salon where chandeliers sparkled against richly decorated walls, and private bedrooms filled with both elegance and functionality.
After Oscar Dickson’s death in 1897, the palace remained in the family’s possession until 1923, when it was repurposed as the Margaretaskolan, a domestic school for young women. Over the years, the building has served various purposes—from a tourist office and art gallery in the 1970s to being declared a historical monument in 1973, cementing its significance in Gothenburg’s history.
Today, the Dicksonska Palace stands as a brilliant example of 19th-century architectural vision. Following an extensive renovation in collaboration with Higab, the building is ready for a new era. With its two lower floors planned to house an exclusive restaurant and event venue, the palace will soon once again be filled with life, laughter, and conversation. It is poised not only to preserve its history but also to create new memories as part of the city’s vibrant cultural heritage.
