Building E in Transformation: Honouring the Past, Embracing the Future Exhibition
The Strategic Heritage Plan (SHP) of the United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG) is an ambitious initiative to modernize the Palais des Nations while preserving the building’s historical and architectural heritage. As a host to UNOG and originating as the seat of the League of Nations, the Palais des Nations holds both historical and symbolic significance. This renovation project not only adapts the building to modern standards in terms of functionality, safety, and sustainability but also respects its architectural integrity. The exhibition “Building E in Transformation” walks you through the planned changes, illustrating the transformation with images of the building’s past, present, and future.
Asbestos removal
To ensure the health and safety of all staff and visitors, asbestos removal is a key priority in this renovation. Structures and piping containing asbestos in Levels 2 and 3, as well as in the tower of Building E, will be meticulously cleared. Following strict cantonal and federal safety regulations, this activity aims to provide a safer, healthier environment in compliance with modern standards.
Dismantling of the office tower
The upper eight floors of the office tower in Building E will be dismantled, considerably reducing the building's height. Subsequently, a new roof slab will be rebuilt on level 3, forming the roof of the office block. This reconfiguration aims to redefine the function of Building E, which will become primarily a space dedicated to conference services and optimized to host multilateral meetings. The new roof slab will cover only the surface area of the office block, without extending into the conference spaces.
Enhanced fire protection
About the Strategic Heritage Plan (SHP) (youtube.com)
The SHP project introduces a comprehensive fire protection strategy specifically for Building E, ensuring compliance with current fire and life safety standards. This strategy includes upgrades like compliant fire-rated materials, dedicated evacuation routes, fire compartments, and direct access points for the Geneva fire brigade. New systems for signage, emergency lighting, and smoke extraction are also being added, along with upgrades in technological rooms and car parks for improved safety and resilience.
Lakeside façade renovation
The iconic lakeside façade of Building E, featuring one of the largest single-pane glass installations in Europe, will be restored. The aging glass panels will be replaced with advanced double-glazed, insulated panels that retain the original size and appearance, enhancing thermal efficiency and safety. The aluminium louvres will be restored to complete the façade’s heritage look, blending historical design with energy efficiency.
Heritage protection: Room XX Ceiling and other elements
A key objective of the SHP project is to preserve historical features within the Palais. Notable heritage elements, including the ceiling of Room XX, will remain untouched, preserving the architectural and historical value of the building. These spaces will continue to serve as a testament to the history and legacy of the Palais des Nations, connecting the UN’s past to its present and future.
Improved accessibility
To create an inclusive environment for all, SHP is enhancing accessibility across the Palais. Conference rooms will feature accessible furniture, automatic doors, upgraded elevators, and refurbished toilets. Tactile paving and Braille signage will be introduced to facilitate navigation, and a multisensory table will be installed at the main entrance, ensuring that the Palais welcomes and serves everyone equally.
Serpent Bar renovation
The iconic Serpent Bar and adjoining foyers will receive updates in line with the broader architectural enhancements at the Palais. A new suspended ceiling and upgraded lighting will be added, and the carpet in the seating area will be replaced, creating a refreshed and comfortable space for gatherings, in harmony with the building’s design.
Energy centre
A new Energy Centre at the Palais will provide renewable heating through modern heat pumps, powering the entire complex sustainably. Cooling for the Palais, largely covered by the GLN network, is undergoing final adjustments to meet 100% of requirements, further solidifying UNOG’s commitment to eco-friendly operations and reducing its environmental impact.
Modern conferencing
Conference Room XVIII, with its classic 1970s design, will be preserved as a historical “testimony room.” Safety and accessibility upgrades will ensure compliance with modern standards while maintaining the room’s vintage aesthetic. Enhanced AV equipment, updated podium and lecterns, and restructured interpreter booths will bring this space into the future without losing its historical character.
Centralizing services in Building E
With the completion of Building H and upgrades across the Palais campus, Building E will emerge as the new service hub. A newly constructed ground-floor corridor in Building E will house essential amenities, including a Client Support Centre, the International Geneva Welcome Centre, a fitness centre, and an ICTS Genius Bar. This redesigned layout brings key services closer together, enhancing convenience and accessibility for all Palais users.
Contact
If you would like any further information or have any questions about the changes underway at the Palais des Nations, please do not hesitate to contact the departments listed below. Our team will be happy to provide you with details of the projects and answer your specific queries.
Strategic Heritage Plan:
email address: shp@un.org
website: Strategic Heritage Plan | The United Nations Office at Geneva (ungeneva.org)
Division of Administration:
email address: director-administration@un.org