The Swiss banking giant has transformed and expanded its Monaco headquarters with the help of renowned architect Jean Nouvel. With this new building, UBS aims to set new standards not only in architecture but also in wealth management.
Originally built in the 1920s as the Belgian embassy, the Villa Belgica has undergone numerous transformations throughout its history. Since 1998, it has served as UBS' headquarters in Monaco. In recent years, the building underwent a comprehensive modernization under the direction of Jean Nouvel, the celebrated French architect known for projects such as the National Museum of Qatar, Louvre Abu Dhabi, and KKL Luzern.
The Modernized Villa Belgica; the illustration on the far right shows how the building has been elevated. (Images: Yvan Grubski/zVg)
The task was far from simple: Jean Nouvel was tasked with turning the former villa into a space that retains its historical character while meeting the needs of a forward-looking banking institution.
The result is a modern landmark.
Rooftop terrace with «breathtaking panoramic views»
Jean Nouvel’s vision adheres to the principle of «harmony of growth,» which preserves the historical features of Villa Belgica while enhancing them with contemporary elements. His design merges the Belle Époque foundation with contemporary elegance. The new upper floors include a restaurant on the ninth floor, a lounge on the tenth, and a rooftop terrace on the eleventh floor offering «breathtaking panoramic views of Monaco and the Mediterranean,» according to Gazette de Monaco.
The rooftop terrace with the mirrored ceiling. (Image: Yvan Grubski)
Highlights of the new design include a mirrored ceiling that reflects the surrounding environment and light-filled spaces throughout the building.
Innovative Customer Service
Covering a total of 1,700 square meters, the building will not house all of the bank’s approximately 200 employees in Monaco; some will remain at other locations in the principality.
«Architecture is an art. The architect’s role is to discuss aesthetics, poetry, and humanism. These values can also help us work better and be perceived more positively in today’s world,» Jean Nouvel told.
With the redesign of Villa Belgica, UBS underscores its ambition to set new benchmarks in wealth management. The upper floors were specifically designed to deliver an extraordinary client experience, blending fine dining with classic banking services.
Prince Albert II (third from left) and Jean Nouvel (front right). (Image: Axel Bastello/Palais Princier)
In early November, Prince Albert II visited the bank’s newly renovated premises. Starting in December, the space will be open to UBS' wealthy clientele.
UBS does not provide any information on the costs.
