Merck Serono Headquarters and Research Center

Citation of Merit

  • Murphy/Jahn; Burckhardt + Partner AG
  • Merck Serono
  • Consultants Werner Sobek Ingenieure (Special Structures and Façade Consultant); Transsolar (Energy Concept); Engineering Group Secheron [/ over 1st e in Secheron]
  • Division Commercial
  • Location Geneva, Switzerland
  • General contractor Steiner Total Services Contractor

Photos

(Click each for a larger version)

Merck Serono Headquarters and Research Center photo #1
Photo: Rainer Viertlboeck
Merck Serono Headquarters and Research Center photo #2
Photo: Rainer Viertlboeck
Merck Serono Headquarters and Research Center photo #3
Photo: Rainer Viertlboeck

Overview

Not a single building but a city block where the architect knitted together new and historical structures as well as open spaces both covered and not, this project impressed jurors with its fluid traffic plan through the ‘Main Street' and other connective areas. They delighted at the "magical and changing boundaries for the public realm" created by the expansive glass roof with lattice work and a screen of crystalline glass blocks. One juror said, "you want to go walk this."