The ‘Colors of Humanity’ building features an innovative façade covered with colorful photovoltaic glass

The energy-efficient building will be the new ‘Doctors Without Borders’ headquarters in Geneva

The energy-efficient building will be the new ‘Doctors Without Borders’ headquarters in Geneva

Doctors without Borders is about to construct the organization’s new headquarters in Geneva. Amidst various proposals from architecture firms around the world, the design chosen was that of the New-York based Steven Holl Architects in collaboration with Rüssli Architekten, who presented an energy-efficient building under the project name “Colors of Humanity”. Its highlight is its façade, covered with colorful photovoltaic glass and providing a unique aesthetic effect, while creating an interior framework for the community inside. “Doctors Without Borders, MSF, is an inspiring organization. It is an honor to realize architecture for their Geneva home,” said Steven Holl.

The façade, which is 40% transparent, produces up to 72% of the building’s energy needs; however, more solar panels will also be installed on the building’s roof, which will be topped with a lush garden. Looking into the future, the innovative glass wall system will be “open ended”, in case the building is expanded later. According to Mathieu Soupart, Logistics Director for the MSF Operational Centre Geneva, the winning design best represents the MSF ethos of community: “Steven Holl Architects’ project is the opportunity for MSF to integrate its core values like independence, impartiality, neutrality, altruism and dynamism in a challenging new architecture and project itself in the future.”

As far as the inside layout is concerned, it is focused on the needs of the MSF community, and each individual space is designated by its color. Featuring various circulation paths and seating alcoves, the building is expected to foster interaction between workers and visitors, a key element in community collaboration. “These centers serve as a friendly catalyst for interaction, acting like social condensers within the building”, explain Steven Holl Architects.

The project, which will provide flexible work and social space for more than 250 employees, is expected to begin construction in Spring 2019.