• ABB to invest approximately CHF 80 million in new ABB Group headquarters
• Blend of heritage and contemporary buildings will offer ABB employees attractive and modern workspaces
• Detailed architectual design plans to be developed in 2026/2027; move-in scheduled for 2031

ABB has unveiled plans to construct a new global headquarters at its historic Zurich Oerlikon location. The project, with a projected budget of around CHF 80 million pending final cost assessments, underscores the company’s deep-rooted dedication to Zurich and its vision to develop a contemporary, forward-thinking workspace for approximately 500 local employees.

The headquarters will integrate the preserved ABB Historic Building with a newly designed addition, based on a concept by Christ & Gantenbein, specialists in heritage structure renovations. Currently leased, the iconic historic structure will undergo comprehensive restoration and modernization in accordance with heritage preservation standards, maintaining its architectural identity while adapting it for modern usage. The decision to repurpose and upgrade the existing structure was driven by sustainability considerations.

The Historic Building will be enhanced by a new six-story structure within the inner courtyard, replacing the non-protected Chicago Hall event venue. The extension’s brick exterior will mirror the materiality of the original building, while utilizing contemporary wood composite construction methods for resource efficiency. Combined with ABB’s smart technological solutions, the design aims to achieve energy efficiency supported by solar power generation.

The completed complex will encompass approximately 10,800 square meters of total floor space. Key features include a 200-square-meter lounge and dining area, a 280-square-meter entrance and exhibition zone, a 450-square-meter auditorium and media center, and an 80-square-meter wellness facility with fitness equipment. It will accommodate staff from ABB’s corporate departments alongside its various business units.

“By investing in this distinctive central location, we are respecting our legacy while preparing for future growth,” stated Morten Wierod, ABB’s CEO. “This initiative reinforces ABB’s enduring connection to Switzerland and the City of Zurich, where our global headquarters has been situated since the 1988 merger of BBC and Asea and where Maschinenfabrik Oerlikon (MFO) operated for many years. The fusion of historical architecture with cutting-edge facilities will foster a dynamic environment for teamwork and innovation.”

Project planning will proceed over the coming years, with detailed architectural designs anticipated in 2026/2027 followed by construction. The planned relocation to the new headquarters is set for 2031. Until then, ABB will remain in its current Cityport facility in Zurich Oerlikon, where it holds a lease agreement until 2031.

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