Looking for an English-speaking architect in Geneva?
As one of Europe’s most international cities, Geneva attracts residents and investors fromall over the world. For many, navigating local regulations and building standards can becomplex, especially when working in a different language or cultural context.
That’s where HertelTan Architectes comes in. As a bilingual architecture firm based inGeneva, we offer tailored architectural services to English-speaking clients—whetherprivate individuals, families, businesses, or institutions—seeking clear, confident guidancethroughout their project.
Why Choose an English-Speaking Architecture Firm in Geneva?
Clear communication is essential to any successful project. Working with an English-speaking architect in Geneva ensures mutual understanding across every phase—from concept andpermitting to construction and final delivery.
At HertelTan, we bridge language and cultural gaps by offering:
- Fully bilingual project management (English–French)
- Transparent documentation and reporting
- Deep familiarity with Swiss regulations and administrative processes
- A collaborative approach tailored to international expectations
Whether you're relocating to Geneva, investing in a property, or developing a business space, we help you feel informed and supported at every step of the way.
Our Architectural Services in English
Our team manages a wide variety of architectural and interior architecture projects across Geneva, Vaud, and Valais cantons.
Our services include :
- Site assessments and feasibility studies
- New residential and commercial builds
- Renovations, Extensions and Upgrades
- Interior architecture and tailored design solutions
- Permit applications and compliance support
- Construction management and cost control
- Sustainable architecture and energy upgrades
We guide each project with precision, from initial idea to final handover, ensuring smooth coordination with consultants, engineers, and contractors.
What Types of Projects Do We Handle?
English-speaking clients in Geneva come to us with a range of needs—from redesigning ahistoric home in the Old Town to building a contemporary residential building. Ourportfolio includes:
Renovations, Extensions and Upgrades
Many of our clients seek to modernize older properties while preserving their character. Wedevelop design solutions that enhance spatial flow, comfort, and energy performance—allwhile respecting regulatory constraints and architectural heritage.
New Builds and Contemporary Homes
For clients planning new construction, we deliver elegant, efficient, and sustainable homestailored to their lifestyle. Our commitment to timeless design and future-ready living shapesevery detail.
Residential building blocks and office spaces
We design multi-unit residential buildings—both private and rental—with a focus on long-term value, spatial quality, and energy performance. Whether in dense urban contexts orperipheral developments, we ensure that each project integrates harmoniously into itsenvironment and responds to evolving ways of living. From early feasibility to constructionoversight, we bring clarity, control, and architectural coherence at every stage.
Office environments require a careful balance between functionality, comfort, andidentity. We create workspaces that support productivity and well-being, while reflectingthe values and culture of each organisation. Whether designing headquarters, co-workingspaces, or commercial interiors, our approach is flexible, collaborative, and attentive tofuture adaptability.
Restaurant design
A restaurant begins to tell its story long before the first dish is served.
We design immersive dining spaces that express your culinary identity, optimise circulation, and enhance the customer experience. From layout and lighting to acoustics and atmosphere ,every element is conceived to align with your vision—whether for a boutique café, a high-end dining room, or a branded concept.
Interior architecture
We also offer bespoke interior design services, ideal for international families or professionals seeking functional, high-quality interiors adapted to their day-to-day needs.
How We Support International Clients
We understand the challenges of building or renovating in a new country.
That’s why we provide a full-service experience, including:
- English-language briefings and documentation
- Help navigating Geneva’s building permit system
- Budget planning and cost estimates
- Coordination with local trades and specialists
- Ongoing client communication—on-site or remotely
- Construction management
Our bilingual team ensures nothing is lost in translation.
Frequently asked questions
What qualifications should an English-speaking architect have in Switzerland?
Qualified architects in Switzerland must hold degrees from accredited institutions and beregistered with the appropriate cantonal authorities.
At HertelTan, our architects areofficially registered in both Geneva and Vaud, and we are members of the SIA (SwissSociety of Engineers and Architects).
We combine this professional recognition with international experience and a fullybilingual approach.
Further qualifications and registrations can be found in the detailed CVs of our founding partners.
Do you work only in Geneva?
While we are based in Geneva, we also serve projects across the Lac Léman region andbeyond—depending on the scope and needs of the client.
What types of clients do you work with?
We regularly work with expatriates, relocating families, diplomatic missions, international organizations, boutique businesses, and real estate investors.
Let’s Build with Confidence
Working with HertelTan means more than hiring an architect—it means choosing a partnerwho understands your language, your expectations, and your goals.
We combine architectural expertise with clarity, care, and cultural insight—so you can build in Genevawith complete confidence.
Want to speak with us about your project?
We’d be happy to hear from you.
