WTO

Genf, Switzerland

Photo © Brigida González

Federal Buildings

Manufacturers: Nimbus Group GmbH

Location: Genf, Switzerland
Year: 2012
Architect: wittfoht architekten Stuttgart
Architekt: wittfoht architekten Stuttgart

Idyllically situated in a park on the shores of Lake Geneva, the extension to the WTO building hovers with crystalline clarity over an earthbound, receding base. The block-shaped building complements the organisation's existing buildings at a respectful distance. A glass pedestrian bridge, which leads directly into the central lobby, connects the structures. The light-flooded, diaphanous building is characterised by the transparency of the building envelope and its stringent structure: whereas the upper floors accommodate offices and administration, there is a restaurant with terrace next to the lobby in the base of the building. Thanks to its sophisticated energy and ventilation concept, the building is within the applicable "Minergie-P" energy standard. One part of this concept saw the building fitted out with Nimbus luminaires. wittfoht architekten were not only convinced by the luminaires' energy efficiency but also by their aesthetics and light quality: "The Nimbus LED luminaires contribute to the special atmosphere in the rooms of the WTO extension, and the response from the staff has been very positive," they stressed.