Tall & Urban News

An international architecture competition was launched in 2021 for the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) so that entrants would propose a design to replace and update the aging buildings currently serving as the firm's headquarters. About 600 employees are currently housed in six energy inefficient and outdated buildings. The firm desired a modern, well-equipped headquarters with up-to-date facilities to host global meetings and activities, and create an overall campus-like environment for employees and visitors. 

The winner, selected in December 2022 by an 11-member jury, was a joint effort between Chile-based Elemental and Swiss firm Nissen Wentzlaff Architekten. The design includes a second tower to sit alongside the existing Martin Burckhardt-designed one, adding to Basel's burgeoning skyline. 

For more on this story, go to designboom.