Once through the bank's doors, visitors enter a gallery of sculptures and artwork arranged at the centre of a large atrium. Naturally lit with light wells, the central part of the building offers an immersive vertical view of the six-storey architecture which showcases 300 works and designer furniture from the contemporary art collection of Mr and Mrs Syz. Indeed Mrs Suzanne Syz herself decorated the building by sourcing original pieces of vintage furniture and adding her own creations in the client-facing rooms, thus providing more authenticity and uniqueness.
Works from major artists of the past few decades, including Roman Signer, John Armleder, Wade Guyton, Cindy Sherman, John Baldessari, Louise Lawler, Sturtevant and Rosemarie Trockel can all be found across the building's six floors. The design and exhibition were conceived by the collection's curator, Nicolas Trembley, using various media including paintings, photographs and drawings, ranging from abstract works to portraits.
"I would be delighted to present our guests with this exceptional space, which perfectly illustrates the passion for art that my wife and I have shared for years. Bringing the fruit of our work and our private collection together under one roof is an accomplishment that gives us immense joy each time we come here", said Eric Syz, founder of SYZ Group.
The complete renovation of the building, constructed between 1906 and 1908, offers a pleasant, well-lit work environment with 215 work spaces spread across 3,678.5 m2, including 2,441 m2 of offices. The cross-disciplinary functions of the group and the Banque SYZ front office have been brought together. The remaining 300 employees of the SYZ Group in Geneva are housed in offices on rue du Rhône, rue du Commerce and rue Neuve du Molard.