La Tulipe was conceived as a highly expressive research building that combines sculptural form with functional flexibility. Rising on a monumental central concrete support, the suspended glass volume minimizes the building's footprint while creating the impression of a floating structure. Its flower-like silhouette—responsible for the nickname La Tulipe—became one of the most distinctive architectural landmarks of Geneva's medical district. The laboratories are arranged around a central service core in a modular layout, allowing adaptable research spaces, while large heat-filtering glazed façades provide generous natural daylight. Bertoli combined exposed concrete with extensive glazing to create a striking contrast between the heavy sculptural base and the transparent upper volume. Underground passages connect the building directly with the neighbouring university hospital and medical faculty, reinforcing its role as an integrated research facility.

In use. Heritage protected since 2015. Renovation studies and conservation works were carried out between 2019 and 2024 to preserve the building's original character, but a comprehensive renovation is still required (last updated on August 6, 2026).

Special thanks to Katja Zimmermann