Our design is inspired by the challenge Serono has set itself to be the biggest and the best Biotech-Company in the world.

Serono and its people has a vision about its products and how the company interacts within and with the public. The task for the architect is to transform these goals into a building, which reflects, better yet, exceeds these desires. Nothing what Serono does reflects convention. The building has to have the same spirit of innovation and renewal to match the minds of Serono with their future surroundings.

The site is challenging and thus offers a great opportunity. Its history goes back to 1892, linked to the emergence of electricity in Geneva. At its full built out in the 50s the site had a strong, block-like character, consisting of large scale simple industrial buildings with a dense urban character. The historic buildings which have to be kept and incorporated and the outparcels which complete the block, dictate a building fabric which responds to those conditions, yet establishes its own identity and continuity throughout the site.

The result is not a building, but a city-block of a series of existing and new structures with space, covered or open, flowing between them. The “Mainstreet” becomes the central organizing element and interchange with the public and links with the internal and more private areas of the Headquarters and the World Research Center. Along its perimeter boundaries the building is seen never as a whole but in fragments, yet with a consistent image. This image of the curved screens with crystalline glass blocks behind is strong, but not intimidating, soft rather than hard, porous for view and air, creating a magical and changing boundary to the public realm.

In terms of construction and performance the building is more informed by principles of science and technology, rather than design and style. Horizon Serono uses new energy concepts that assume responsibility for more than form and aesthetic. Daylight, natural ventilation, solar energy and the idea that a building modulates its own climate are the basic concepts to maximize the use of natural resources and minimize technical and mechanical equipment. This results in a building of high technology, but low energy consumption.

The ultimate goal of any building, but Horizon Serono in particular, is to create a pleasant and comfortable work place for its users. The halls, courts, gardens and bridges, which connect the function areas are pleasant journeys in light and comprehension, easing and facilitating movements both horizontally and vertically. The “Mainstreet” is not only a central focus, but a device which makes Horizon Serono part of the city. The planning allows for this linkage with the public realm without interfering with Serono’s private, internal activities. Serono’s image as a good corporate citizen can be greatly enhanced, as can be the use of the building for external or public functions, if so desired.

Horizon Serono: Architecture and Beyond.