In a celebration of architectural heritage and sustainable innovation, UBS Monaco has officially unveiled its new headquarters at the historic Villa Belgica. Designed by acclaimed architect Jean Nouvel, the refurbished building marks a significant new chapter for the financial institution in the heart of the Principality.
The history of Villa Belgica, a Belle Époque structure characterised by its corner dome and early 20th-century charm, dates back to its acquisition by Alfred Bouvier in 1925. Over the decades, the building has undergone various modifications, but this latest transformation under Nouvel reflects a “harmony of growth,” retaining its original character while integrating contemporary elements.
Image by Jack Brodie: Award winning architect Jean Nouvel was on hand to unveil the new UBS Monaco headquarters and answer questions of the assembled press on Monday, November 4
For UBS Monaco, this renovation represents more than an aesthetic enhancement—it symbolises a deep commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The project, led by the Michel Pastor Group, is on track to achieve BREEAM Excellence and BD2M Gold certifications, the latter being Monaco’s highest standard for environmental responsibility. These certifications acknowledge the building’s energy efficiency, resource management, and occupant well-being, aligning with UBS Monaco’s dedication to sustainable practices.
Moving operations to the city centre, the redesigned headquarters is intended to be a hub for enhanced client interaction and accessibility, blending functionality with modern elegance. The top floors, in particular, are set to offer an unprecedented client experience with exclusive spaces for dining and leisure. Michelin-inspired Mediterranean cuisine, courtesy of the renowned Lovisolo family, further elevates the offerings, providing clients with a unique culinary experience.
Nouvel’s design honours Villa Belgica’s architectural heritage while adding a contemporary edge. With subtle variations in textures and materials, the building’s exterior is a harmonious blend of opaque, matte, and translucent surfaces. This approach preserves the villa’s historic integrity and brings a fresh sense of purpose to the structure, which now encompasses 1,700 square meters.
Inside, the interior by Bel Œil Monaco, a prominent design studio, promotes openness and collaboration, utilising noble materials like fine woods and leather to create an inviting atmosphere. Custom-made furnishings and thoughtful design by brands such as A&B Living and Walter Knoll reflect UBS Monaco’s commitment to excellence and attention to detail. Nouvel explains that his architectural philosophy emphasises not only functionality but also beauty, poetry, and humanism, enhancing the work environment through aesthetics.
As the new UBS headquarters opens its doors, it stands as a testament to Monaco’s evolving architectural landscape and UBS’s ongoing dedication to heritage, sustainability, and client-centred innovation in private banking.
Other images courtesy of UBS Monaco / Yvan Grubski
