Replacement new build “Les Acacias”

The layout separates living and quiet areas and meets the requirements of the Geneva rental market

With the completion of the first phase of the replacement new build, the transformation towards a modern inner-city development is taking further shape.

The completion of the first construction phase marks another milestone in the transformation of the site. The “Les Acacias” project stands for renewal within an established neighborhood and a clear reorientation of usage. A further key focus is on improving the energy performance of the site.

From existing property to a future-ready new build

The property dates back to the 1960s and had long been used for residential, office and commercial purposes. Over time, it no longer met today’s structural or technical requirements. In addition, the existing building offered little scope for the further development of the neighborhood.

Against this backdrop, UBS «Sima» decided to replace the existing structure with a new build. With construction works starting in February 2024, the foundations were laid to reorganize usage, floor space and energy efficiency and to future-proof the site over the long term.

Focus on residential use

The new development replaces approximately 3,300 m² of gross floor area with a project covering a total of 51,000 m². The plan comprises 335 apartments across nine floors, complemented by generously sized loggias. Due to the proximity to the university, student housing is planned on the first two floors.

The mix of apartments ranges from 2- to 6-room units and is aligned with demand in the Canton of Geneva. Communal areas on the ground floor complement the residential offering. Commercial units of varying sizes are also located on the ground floor and are arranged in a ring around a landscaped inner courtyard.

The courtyard will be designed with native tree and plant species, green spaces, as well as play and seating areas.

Energy and environmental concept

The new building aims to achieve Minergie ECO certification*. Heating and hot water supply are based entirely on renewable energy sources. Planned systems include heat pumps located in the basement and connected to a regional lake water network, as well as photovoltaic installations on the roof areas.

Construction methods also follow clear ecological guidelines: the use of recycled concrete, energy-efficient facades and window systems helps to reduce energy consumption. Greened roof areas further improve thermal insulation in winter and reduce heat build-up in summer. For mobility, numerous bicycle parking spaces as well as parking spaces equipped with charging infrastructure for electric vehicles are provided.

Implementation in three phases

The “Les Acacias” project is being implemented in three phases. With the completion of the first phase as of January 2026, one building section has been completed and occupied.
The phased implementation allows the apartments to be completed and brought into operation gradually.

Facts & Figures:

Investment volume: approx. CHF 194 million
Construction period: February 2024 to December 2026
Tenant move-in: phased from spring 2025

With the “Les Acacias” project in Geneva, UBS «Sima» continues the renewal of its real estate portfolio. The replacement new build creates additional residential space, reduces energy consumption and strengthens the site’s integration into the urban fabric. The completion of the first phase marks another step in line with the planned project schedule. Upon completion of the third phase, “Les Acacias” will represent the largest individual property in the portfolio of the UBS «Sima» real estate fund. At the same time, overall portfolio risk remains limited thanks to its broad diversification.¹

¹ Past performance is no guarantee of future developments.

* Sustainability certificates such as Minergie, SNBS, LEED or DGNB are awarded by independent third-party organizations during a property’s planning and construction phase. The assessment is based on publicly available criteria. Final certification is granted after completion of the construction project and does not guarantee sustainability during ongoing operation.

Martin Strub
Fund Manager since 2013

UBS «Sima»

UBS (CH) Property Fund – Swiss Mixed «Sima»
Valor 1 442 087

Product page UBS «Sima»

Short news

“Birsgarten” senior living and care center in Reinach completed as scheduled

The “Birsgarten” senior living and care center in Reinach (BL) was completed as planned at the end of 2025. The property forms part of the new “Aere” development on the former Stöcklin site and complements the neighborhood with a modern residential and care offering for older people.

The project was acquired by UBS «Sima» at the end of 2022. With Senevita, an experienced operator was secured and a long-term lease agreement of at least 15 years was concluded. The handover took place on 1 December 2025.

The senior residence comprises 52 senior apartments, 88 care rooms as well as a wide range of communal and service areas. Ground-source heat pumps, photovoltaic installations and high energy standards are designed to enable sustainable and efficient operation of the property. With this new development, UBS «Sima» makes an important contribution to meeting the growing demand for senior living and care infrastructure in the region.

Further information

Information on the investment objectives, risks, fees and costs of the product, as well as further detailed information, can be found in the prospectus (or the relevant offering document), which should be read carefully before making any investment.