UBS Monaco: prestigious rebirth of the Villa Belgica by Jean Nouvel

2025 07 22 Inauguration UBS Monaco

UBS Monaco is making a spectacular return to the Carré d'Or. More than just a headquarters, the Villa Belgica, renovated and raised by Jean Nouvel, is an architectural, ecological and strategic manifesto. It is a space designed to appeal to clients and partners in a confidential, luxurious and resolutely contemporary atmosphere. We meet Karl Waelchli, COO & Head of Transformation at UBS Monaco, who is responsible for the project.

Why did UBS choose to reinvest in the Villa Belgica?

It was above all a return to our roots. UBS Monaco owns the building and had historically been based at this iconic address, but our departure in 2015-2016 raised many questions. Was this a gradual withdrawal of UBS from the Principality? Today, this return to the heart of the Carré d'Or sends a clear message to Monaco: UBS Monaco is here to stay. It was also about regaining our natural place in Monaco's economic and social landscape, where decision-makers, investors and leading families come together: near the Place du Casino.

Was the project driven by a need for space or other more symbolic ambitions?

Of course, space was important, but the ambition went far beyond the simple question of floor space. It was primarily about image, strategic positioning and creating a real anchor for the future. After three years of construction, Villa Belgica reflects respect for Monaco's architectural history while offering a glimpse into the future. The building is a synthesis of past and present, tradition and sustainable innovation.

Why did you choose Jean Nouvel for this project?

We consulted three renowned architects: one Swiss and two French, including Jean Nouvel. His project was unanimously approved for its elegance, subtlety and understanding of the Monegasque context. Jean Nouvel did not simply design another building: he created a living work of art. He has respected the architectural heritage while infusing a touch of modernity with a play of colours and materials. His vision of blue and white, and his reflective facades that capture the light and the sea, give the building a life of its own. His technical innovation of external spiral staircases, which free up buildable space, is proof of his ingenuity.

What innovations have been incorporated into this new headquarters?

Beyond its aesthetics, Villa Belgica is part of a rigorous environmental approach. The double façade allows for natural temperature regulation, limiting the need for air conditioning and heating. All the interior walls are made of wood, which is rare for a building of this size, but reflects our commitment to sustainability. The technology on board is state-of-the-art: intelligent energy management systems, adaptive air conditioning, enhanced connectivity... Although some technologies still require adjustments, they demonstrate our ambition to be a model of sustainable development.

How have employees responded to the change?

The feedback has been very positive. Here, employees feel like they have come ‘home’. We have returned to the heart of Monaco, making it easier to meet with clients, partners and local business leaders. We were more isolated at the port; here, everything is more accessible. This return has strengthened the sense of community and pride in belonging to a large company that is making a long-term investment in the region.

Is this Monegasque project part of a broader dynamic for UBS in Europe?

Absolutely. UBS has embarked on a global real estate review, particularly in the context of the integration of Credit Suisse. Paris, Frankfurt, Madrid, London: our headquarters across Europe are being redesigned. It's an ongoing process that combines local tradition, modernity and strategic repositioning.
In Paris, for example, we have integrated a Belle Époque building with a golden UBS logo – an exceptional departure from the group's standards – proving that each project is designed in harmony with the local context.

Does Villa Belgica play a marketing role in the development of the UBS brand?

Undeniably. Villa Belgica is not just a headquarters: it is a showcase. It clearly positions us as a luxury brand.
We host exclusive events there in partnership with prestigious companies. The venue has become a real hub for luxury and excellence, providing the perfect setting for high-level networking in a confidential and elegant atmosphere. It is the visual and experiential representation of our brand vision: ‘Wealth Management is our Craft.’

How do you ensure that this space remains exclusive?

This is a crucial point. We carefully select events and partners. We don't want to turn Villa Belgica into an ordinary event venue. We want to preserve its unique character and confidentiality. The challenge is to maintain a balance between banking activities, exclusive meetings and prestigious collaborations.

Can you measure the impact of this venue on the perception of UBS in Monaco?

The impact is real. Tourists and Monegasques stop to take photos of the building, without always knowing what it houses. Influencers share images of Villa Belgica on TikTok, Instagram and LinkedIn, helping to create an image of beauty and prestige around UBS. This indirect communication reinforces our positioning as a bank that combines discretion, luxury and local roots.

 

Photo credit: Axel Bastello / Palais Princier