The Permanent Mission of Iceland moves to the Kyoto building: a Sustainable choice in the heart of International Geneva

The first diplomatic mission to join Kyoto, Iceland’s Permanent Mission and Embassy in Geneva embodies the spirit of Green Village: sustainability, modernity, and international openness. Ambassador Einar Gunnarsson explains how the building meets the needs of his organization and why his staff are looking forward to moving into their new offices.

How have your real estate needs evolved over the past years?

After 25 years in Sécheron, our offices required renovation. Rather than investing in major works in an old building, we chose to move into a more modern, sustainable, and functional building. Discovering Kyoto and Green Village it quickly became an obvious choice, and the project rapidly took shape with the support of the broker JLL. Today, our architect Sonderegger is finalizing the interior layouts for a move scheduled at the beginning of 2026.

Why did you choose Kyoto?

A strategic location: in the heart of International Geneva, close to the ILO, WHO, and soon the new tram line. The airport is also nearby—an important advantage for our visitors from Reykjavik and when we need to travel for our work.

A modern and flexible building: our current premises are highly compartmentalized. At Kyoto, we will benefit from open spaces for our ten staff members, several meeting rooms, and a clear separation between the Mission and the Embassy, as required by the Swiss authorities.

A sustainable choice: Kyoto and Green Village reflect our environmental commitments. We have already replaced our official car with a 100% electric vehicle and encourage our staff to use bicycles or public transport instead of cars when possible. The sustainable philosophy of the district perfectly aligns with our vision.

How do your staff view their move to Kyoto?

They are eager to join a modern, accessible, and forward-looking workplace. The proximity of international schools will simplify daily life for several families, and we are confident that the dynamic development of the district will create a vibrant neighborhood, rich in services and opportunities for interaction, notably through nearby projects such as Passage Morillons.

We are delighted to be moving into Kyoto and to contribute to the development of a neighborhood that embodies the future of work and sustainability in Geneva.