After just 10 months of construction, the framework of the new headquarters for the scientific and technical services company was complete.

Since installation of windows and building technology began on schedule, the celebration on Wednesday, complete with the traditional ceremonial toasts, was held in warm surroundings despite chilly winter temperatures. Numerous guests came to express their congratulations on the construction progress.

The useable space of 14,000 m² over six stories is the ideal spot to consolidate most of the Solvias services at one central location. The model lab built by the Waldner company in November offers a first impression of how the space will be used in the future. This walk-in prototype will help with the planning and ordering process for the proper fittings for all laboratories. Solvias is working with Dr. Heinekamp Labor- und Institutsplanung GbR to plan this state-of-the-art laboratory space in detail.

Move scheduled for autumn 2010

After construction is complete, a majority of employees will move from the leased premises in Basel into the company-owned building in Kaiseraugst. The planning is in full swing. “The move will have little impact on our clients; only the address will change,” says Hansjörg Walther, CEO of Solvias. “Our extensive array of machinery and equipment will allow us to move most labs gradually, posing minimal interruption to our operations.”

The construction costs of CHF 70 million, including the property purchase, are being financed by way of a real estate lease agreement with partner Credit Suisse AG. This first step into the future also takes the next steps into account: a space of 6,800m2 has been set aside for growth in the coming years.