Herzog & de Meuron are building at head office in Basel

At an information event in Basel, architect Pierre de Meuron succeeded in arousing joyful anticipation of the new Helvetia head office, the “Campus” project. “In the Campus, we will create a multi-faceted meeting place for employees and the population.” The core of the new building is the new office tower, which together with the existing building will become a twin tower.

Magnificent views of Basel

The intermediate building – the generously proportioned main entrance – also assumes special significance, because that's where the spacious auditorium for internal and external events will be located. And the rooftop café in the new twin building with magnificent views of Basel will also offer plenty of space. At the same height in the renovated tower, which has been made one floor higher, there will be a lounge for employees only. The lounge and various meeting points and refuge areas on every floor are intended to promote dialogue and the exchange of ideas.

A workplace for everyone

The work premises will be bright and airy and, in contrast to current trends, Helvetia wants every employee to have his or her own workplace. The future staff restaurant will extend across the new top floor of an existing building and offer freshly prepared meals. For all those who enjoy a little sporting activity in the nearby park at lunchtime, before or after work, there will be changing cubicles and showers available. Further options are under consideration.

Building until 2023

Helvetia is investing around CHF 200 million in its new head office project. The new office block and the entrance area should be ready to move into by the end of 2020. Following the renovation of the old office building and the construction of the staff restaurant, the project is expected to be completed by 2023. From 2025 the plan is to create a residential building on the facing north side of the St.Alban-Anlage, with over 50 rental apartments as well as Helvetia's own guest accommodation.