Firms in the Spotlight Real estate and construction

VISCHER

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VISCHER is a leading Swiss law firm with over 120 fee earners. The firm provides solution-oriented support in all aspects of commercial, tax, and regulatory law. Their experts are organized in more than 20 practice teams, each led by experienced partners.

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Real estate and construction in Switzerland

Baker McKenzie Switzerland AG

Baker McKenzie Switzerland AG acts on a diverse range of real estate matters, including M&A, private equity, investment schemes, and development projects, for a client list which includes both high-profile domestic and international clients. The department has recently been active in the hotel sector, with notable clients including edyn hospitality group and Beaumier. The Zurich office is co-led by Martin Furrer, Alexander Wyss, and Samuel Marbacher, all of whom are praised for their ‘to-the-point, hands-on and very personable approach‘. Charles Gschwind leads in Geneva, and has experience handling real estate transactions and related administrative matters.

Other key lawyers:

Zarina Füglister


Testimonials

‘The real estate team is very skilled, experienced and competent. Over the years, BMK has been very successful in integrating young talents, also across language borders, and making them valuable contacts for us.’

‘We would in particular mention, Mr. Samuel Marbacher, Mr. Martin Furrer and Mr. Alexander Wyss. Apart from the fact that they are highly competent and knowledgeable, they stand out with their to-the-point, hands-on and very personable approach to our legal questions.’

Key clients

Variosystems AG


Swisscanto Anlagestifung


PSP Swiss Property


Edyn hospitality group


Beaumier


Galenica group


Deka Immobilien Investment GmbH


HOCHDORF Swiss Nutrition AG


Steiner AG


Swisscanto Real Estate Fund Responsible Swiss Commercial


Work highlights


  • Advised edyn hospitality group on its acquisition of Hotel Ascot in Zurich, which will reopen in Summer 2023 under the name of edyn’s lifestyle brand, Locke.
  • Advised leading real estate developer Steiner AG on the sale of the development project ‘Widacher’ in Fischbach-Göslikon.
  • Advised PSP Swiss Property (“PSP”) on its acquisition of a top tier property in Geneva in a share deal.

Bär & Karrer Ltd.

Bär & Karrer Ltd.‘s team covers the full spectrum of real estate transactions, including asset deals, individual sales, and share deals, as well as capital market transactions. The group also has strength in development projects, and covers public and private construction law. Department head Corrado Rampini has expertise in financing, enforcements, and restructurings in the real estate sector, and also covers asset deals and large-scale portfolio transactions. Daniel Bader advises individuals and corporate clients on tax matters related to real estate. At the associate level, Rocco Rigozzi and Kilian Müller are names to note.

Practice head(s):

Corrado Rampini


Other key lawyers:

Ralph Malacrida; Massimo Vanotti; Daniel Bader; Rocco Rigozzi; Kilian Müller


Testimonials

‘Experienced and to the point. Solution focused and good to work with. Also, great collaboration within the firm to deliver solutions.’

‘A competent and courteous service, as well as a good reputation.’

‘Kilian Müller is a very smart guy with a good education and great negotiating skills. He works very quickly and reliably.’

Key clients

Allreal Holding AG


Novartis Pharma Stein AG


Work highlights


  • Advising Allreal Holding on the acquisition of several real Estate companies from Immosynergies Holding.
  • Advising Novartis on the sale of a part of its industry area in Stein in the form of a building right to Lonza AG.

Bratschi Ltd

Bratschi Ltd advises in all areas of both private and public real estate law, including transactions, zoning law and environmental matters. The team has profound expertise with real estate disputes, often representing clients before civil courts and arbitration bodies. Ion Eglin is an asset to the team with exceptional experience and focus on hospitality law. Team heads Markus Aeschbacher and Thomas Schönenberger  are certified real estate specialists.

Practice head(s):

Markus Zurich; Thomas Schönenberger


Other key lawyers:

Ion Eglin; Christian Wind; Nadine Wanner


Testimonials

‘Very straight forward, efficient hands-on advice. Good collaboration with other teams within the firm (tax, trust) which are extremely helpful for the client.’

‘Markus Aeschbacher –Big knowledge, very helpful.’

‘Thomas Schönenberger, Much experience, very helpful Bigna Heim: Much experience, hard-working,’

‘Very focused on solutions, very well trained. Lot of industry knowledge.’

‘Very professional and enjoyable to work with.’

‘Reachability, approachable and not pushing for unnecessary works.’

‘Great know-how and good analytical strategic skills, available, very well-structured, excellent cooperation, our needs are well met, capacity to manage several projects in parallel.”

‘Capable real estate specialist team with a special focus on the hotel industry under the excellent leadership of Mr Ion Eglin as partner for the hospitality law sector.’

Key clients

BP Europe SE, Hamburg, Zweigniederlassung BP (Switzerland) Zug


Calzedonia Group / Calzedonia Switzerland AG


Generali Italia SpA


SPAR Group, including TopCC AG


Intershop Management AG/Intershop Holding AG


Realstone SA


Steigenberger Hotels AG


Yotel Hotels


Odyssey Hotel Group


Laudinella Hotel Group


Merck & Cie.


DPR Constructions


Blumer-Lehmann AG


CSL Behring Bern AG


Spitalanlagengesellschaft Spitalregion Fürstenland-Toggenburg


Meier Tobler AG


Genossenschaft Migros Ostschweiz


Arbonia AG


Asga Pensionskasse Genossenschaft


Kantonsspital St. Gallen


RIMC Schweiz Hotels & Resorts AG


Säntis Home AG


Fortimo AG


Hälg & Co. AG


Ego Kiefer AG


St. Galler Kantonalbank


Westoffice Real Estate AG


Pilecki Institute


Bezirk und Römisch-katholische Kirchgemeinde Einsiedeln (Municipality and Roman Catholic Community Einsiedeln)


ASTRA – The Federal Road Office of Switzerland


Petroncini Impianti SpA / Industria Macchine Automatiche SpA


Oel-Pool AG / Moveri AG


Work highlights


  • Acted on behalf of the Bezirk Einsiedeln and of the Römisch-katholische Kirchgemeinde Einsiedeln regarding the redevelopment of the central area Einsiedlerhof close to the historic monastery of Einsiedeln.
  • Advised Asga Pensionskasse Genossenschaft in the transaction of buying seven prestigious business properties in Eastern Switzerland from Credit Suisse AG as of the beginning of 2022, and of simultaneously leasing them back to Credit Suisse (Schweiz) AG on a long-term basis.
  • Advised and supported the Steigenberger hotel group (Steigenberger Hotels AG, headquarters in Frankfurt, Germany), for their new long-term hotel lease agreements and related legal matters for various hotel developments and openings of new hotels of the group in Switzerland.

CMS von Erlach Partners Ltd.

CMS von Erlach Partners Ltd. is particularly active advising domestic and international institutional investors, and handle a range of matters, including acquisitions and divestments of property, development projects, and sale-and-leaseback transactions. Stefan Gerster, who has worked in the practice area for more than 30 years, leads in Zurich, while Olivier Carrard, whose practice covers commercial real estate and project development, heads the Geneva office. Also key are Sibylle Schnyder, who brings additional expertise in real-estate litigation, and Sidonie Morvan.

Practice head(s):

Stefan Gerster; Olivier Carrard


Testimonials

‘Very innovative, business oriented real estate team. Always well connected and up to date regarding new legal developments in Swiss regulations.’

‘Dr.Stefan Gerster: Exceptional track record in real estate institutional transactions Dr. Sybille Schnyder: Exceptional track record in real estate institutional transactions.’

‘People, collaboration, diversity, complementary skills.’

‘They get things done, goal orientation, thinking along.’

‘Individuals to be mentioned: Stefan Gerster, Sibylle Schnyder, Thomas Zweifel.’

Key clients

Credit Suisse Asset Management


Nova Property Funds Management


Swiss Prime Site Immobilien


Swiss Prime Solutions


Generali Investments


Vinci Promotion


Work highlights


  • Advised Credit Suisse Asset Management, acting for Credit Suisse Real Estate Fund Hospitality, regarding the sale of a hotel property in Basel
  • Advised Nova Property Fund Management, acting on behalf of a Switzerland-based investment foundation, regarding the acquisition of a real estate portfolio consisting of seven commercial properties in three different Cantons.
  • Advised SPA and ASGA regarding the acquisition of a residential and commercial building in Geneva.

Lenz & Staehelin

Lenz & Staehelin advises a diverse range of high profile clients on real estate transactions and construction, with expertise at all stages of project development. The department also has strength in the infrastructure sector, with specialists across a range of industries including energy, water, transportation and communication. Beat Kühni, whose practice includes transactional work, construction and zoning projects, and real estate securitisations, co-leads the team alongside the Geneva-based Cécile Berger Meyer, who advises private and institutional clients in both civil and administrative matters, and Fabiano Menghini, who made partner in January 2022.

Other key lawyers:

Cécile Vulliemin


Testimonials

‘Experience, determination, availability, knowledge in real estate matters.’

‘Cécile Berger Meyer is an experienced partner in real estate matters. Very pragmatic approach in helping to close a complicated deal having always in mind the protection of the client.’

‘Very good team, high knowledge.’

‘On time, always available.’

‘Great legal expertise and experience combined with pragmatism and negotiation skills.’

‘Fabiano Menghini combines great legal expertise and experience with pragmatism and negotiation skills.’

‘The team is very experienced in all real estate and construction practice. Excellent knowledge of all specific juridictions and laws in Switzerland. Deadlines are always achieved.’

‘Cécile Berger Meyer is the best real estate lawyer within the Swiss industry. Very efficient, excellent understanding of the business case, always available, and solution-oriented.’

Key clients

Bain/Cinven


BMS


Climeworks


FIVE Resorts Group


Lonza


Vail Resorts


Work highlights


  • Advised Vail Resorts on the acquisition of a majority stake in Andermatt-Sedrun Sport AG from Andermatt Swiss Alps AG (ASA), marking Vail Resorts’ first strategic investment in, and opportunity to operate, a ski resort in Europe.
  • Advised Lonza Group AG on its plans to construct a large-scale, commercial drug product fill & finish facility in Stein, Switzerland.
     
  • Advised the seller with respect to the sale of 31’000sqm of residential land to a listed real estate fund.

MLL Legal

Headed by Wolfgang Müller in Zurich and Philippe Prost in Geneva, MLL Legal’s real estate practice focuses on the acquisition and sale of properties, project development, financing, construction, and real estate litigation matters, particularly relating to construction law and zoning issues. Key strengths of the firm include rental law and German investment law. The team has extensive experience representing clients before the courts in real estate dispute resolution cases regarding landlord-tenant conflict and construction. Marc Schamaun joined from Homburger in February 2023.

Practice head(s):

Wolfgang Müller; Philippe Prost


Other key lawyers:

Marc Schamaun


Testimonials

‘MLL is always reachable on all available channels – phone, email etc. Everyone is very polite, helping out directly and efficiently. Holiday times do not stop or delay the communication. So, in our opinion MLL is the best organised law firm we are dealing with. MLL is working on a very high level with a perfect structure.’

‘From our work with MLL we single out Dr. Wolfgang Müller in particular because he always answers every question/inquiry entirely. His constructive proposals exceeded our expectations. Dr. Wolfgang Müller is always part of the transaction thinking from our point of view apart of legal aspects to reach a very positive outcome for us as clients.’

‘The MLL Team has wide experience in Real Estate topics and if there is somebody with less experience then they ask a teammate who has the right knowledge. They discuss difficult topics internally to provide the best solution to the client.’

‘Very good knowledge of the files by several collaborators, no worries in case of absence of one or the other.’

‘Excellent knowledge of Swiss real estate laws and practices.’

‘The team is very professional, has in depth knowledge of Real estate issues with different peoples having complementary skills. MLL is a serious and solid partner you can rely on.’

‘The individuals are all very reactive if this is needed, and easy to work with.’

Key clients

Allianz (Allianz Suisse Immobilien AG)


Allreal Holding AG


Burkhalter Holding AG


Calida Holding AG


Central Real Estate Basel AG


Generali (Generali Personenversicherungen AG)


HIAG Immobilien Holding AG


Meyer Burger Technology AG


Nova Property Fund Management AG


Rystadt AG (formerly Central Real Estate Basel AG)


Sunrise (Sunrise Communications AG)


Swiss Life AG


Züblin Immobilien AG


1291 Die Schweizer Anlagestiftung


Work highlights


  • Advised Swiss Life in the acquisition of a real estate portfolio comprising 26 real properties in 4 cantons for a purchase price of CHF 360.3 million and the ongoing project development.
  • Advised Burkhalter Holding AG in the merger and takeover of SIX-listed poenina holding ag and the listing of the new Burkhalter shares on SIX Swiss Exchange thereby creating a company with a market cap exceeded CHF 750 million based on the closing share price of 29 June 2022.
  • Advised HIAG in its rights offering and listing of new shares at SIX Swiss Exchange, the proceeds of about CHF 160 million to be used mainly for project development.

Niederer Kraft Frey AG

Niederer Kraft Frey AG’s is well recognised for its tailored advice which covers the full lifecycle of real estate from acquisition to disposition in all major cantons of Switzerland. The firm leverages its multidisciplinary status, often collaborating with other practice groups including tax, banking, and dispute resolution to increase efficiency. Andreas F Vögeli  heads the team and has considerable experience in multi-jurisdictional real estate transactions and land development. He is often supported by Oliver Zbinden who has vast experience with complex Lex Koller issues and with environmental matters.

Practice head(s):

Andreas F. Vögeli


Other key lawyers:

Oliver Zbinden; Annina Fey; Jamie Lee Mancini


 


Testimonials

‘Law firm with an excellent reputation and a very strong real estate team that goes always the extra mile to achieve best results.’

‘Very good people and communication skills, persuasive personality, high availability, outstanding negotiating skills, perfect knowledge about real estate law (especially Andreas Vögeli but also his team members Oliver Zbinden, Annina Fey and Jamie Lee Mancini).’

‘The team is reliable; binding and trustworthy; they are understanding the different supply chain steps in the real estate industry. They are using the technical state-of-the-art standards state.’

‘They are interested in understanding the problem und try to solve it; the team is content and solution oriented.’

‘Longstanding market practice Excellent network Nice People Deal oriented and pragmatic.’

‘Very broad know-how in real estate issues. Individuals with a high degree and experience in their specialty. So – from our point of view – a competent partner for real estate “challenges” for all legal issues.’

‘Annina Fey understood very quickly where the challenges lay in the topics presented. This is remarkable because in the area of real estate for telecommunications buildings, many issues are extremely closely linked to the challenges of Swisscom’s core business. In addition, the cooperation was extremely trusting, committed, open and very professional.’

‘Andreas Voegeli, in-depth real estate, market and legal knowledge.’

Key clients

A.P. Møller Holding A/S


Boltshauser Architekten AG


Coop


Frulact Serviços Partilhados SA


Ina Invest Holding AG


Mettler2Invest AG


Swiss Finance Property AG


Swisscom Immobilien AG


AXA Investment Managers (Schweiz) AG


BVK Personalvorsorge des Kantons Zürich (Pension Fund of the Canton of Zurich)


Canton of Zug


Credit Suisse Asset Management AG (resp. its Real Estate Funds and Real Estate Foundation; SIX Swiss Exchange listed)


EQT Partner AG


REWE Group (www.rewe-group.com)


Rhystadt AG


RUAG Real Estate AG


Schroder Investment Management (Switzerland) AG (resp. the Real Estate Fund Schroder ImmoPlus|(SIX Swiss Exchange listed)


ZKB / Swisscanto Invest


Work highlights


  • Advised Ina Invest on the acquisition of a majority stake in CERES Group Holding Ltd (CERES) and contracts regarding the “Bredella” development project at Pratteln railway station and three ancillary properties in Pratteln and Aesch, Basel-Land.
  • Advised on the acquisition of a large commercial property with a single tenant and a “roof and shed” lease as well as the sale of two very large commercial buildings in Zurich.
  • Advised on various real estate transactions (on seller as well as buyer side) throughout Switzerland (including the German, French and Italian speaking regions of Switzerland) and various large construction / development projects.

Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd

Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd advises clients in contentious matters such as construction disputes, and non-contentious matters including due diligence reviews and contractual negotiation, implementation, and enforcement. The team has particular expertise with complex cross-border sale and purchases and is very active in the hotel and retail industry. The practice is highly integrated and regularly draws on support from related groups such as tax, employment, and M&A. Yves Jeanrenaud  heads the Geneva team with extensive experience in contractual real estate matters, while Josef Caleff  leads the Zurich team, leveraging a track record in complex real estate transactions.

Practice head(s):

Yves Jeanrenaud; Josef Caleff


Other key lawyers:

Amanda Burnand


Testimonials

‘We have worked with this practice since 2005. They have a deep knowledge of our business and provide exceptional advice in construction and real estate matters, as well as financial and taxation advice and litigation.’

‘We work mainly with Yves Jeanrenaud and Amanda Burnand. They respond immediately to any requests for advice or necessary action in connections with new tenancies, landlord and tenant disputes and problems with construction companies.’

‘Josef Caleff is a very reliable partner with excellent expertise in his field.’

‘The team is seasoned, articulate and client oriented. It is multidisciplinary and able to steer transactions confidently and earn the respect of their counterparts when running transactions.’

Key clients

International Labour Organization


Bouygues Construction


BMS – Bristol Myers Squibb


Credit Suisse AG


Digital Realty


Procimmo AG


Christie’s


Hotel Beaulac, Neuchatel


Implenia (Suisse) SA


Société Privée de Gérance


Patrizia AG


SV Group AG


SPGI


Vantage Data Center


Barry Callebaut AG


Celgene International II Sarl


DuPont de Nemours


Goldman Sachs


CBRE


HIG Capital


IDUN Industries


Bank Julius Bär


IFF


Colt Data Center Cervices


Work highlights


  • Assisted the client for the sale of a data-center in Switzerland in the course of a portfolio sale of 11 data-centers in Europe to Ascendas Reit, a Capitaland sponsored REIT.
  • Advised IFF, a leading manufacturer of flavours, extracts and fragrances for consumer products based in New York, USA, in the sale of the food preparation business, in particular the production site in Reinach.
  • Assisted Celgene for the negotiation, the drafting, and the signing of a business transfer agreement related to the operation of a pharmaceutical production site located in Couvet, Neuchâtel by way of a bulk asset transfer pursuant to the Merger Act (including plots land, buildings, contracts and employment agreements).

Walder Wyss Ltd.

Walder Wyss Ltd. is widely recognised for its history of advising on high profile complex transactions, with particular experience in representing buy-side investors. The team acts for a wide range of clients including real estate funds, high net worth individuals and public listed companies. The firm also frequently represents clients in complex real estate disputes, establishing a solid reputation with international brands and investors. Practice heads Francis Nordmann , Johannes A. Bürgi and Marco Strahm   leverage advanced know-how in complex commercial and corporate transactions. Samuel Dürr  is a benefit to the team with his strong expertise in Swiss real estate tax law.










Practice head(s):

Francis Nordmann; Johannes Bürgi; Marco Strahm


Other key lawyers:

Samuel Durr; Albane Selimi; Etienne Trandafir; André Kuhn


Testimonials

‘Francis Nordmann is an outstanding partner. He is reachable outside business hours and provides well-founded information immediately or within short delays. Whenever needed he clearly communicated the deadline and accommodates in case of urgency.’

‘The Team of WW is highly professional, well-trained and before everything else proactive and solution oriented which makes the collaboration not only very efficient and easier but especially very helpful.’

‘Albane Selimi is my go-to lawyer. She negotiates very strictly with the opposite party. She understands and takes on our point of view very well.’

‘I mainly worked with Albane Selimi. Besides her professional competence, she is very solution-oriented and quick to deliver high-quality results. She is also an excellent communicator, making legal challenges easy to understand for me, thus allowing well-informed business decisions.’

‘Walder Wyss knows how to immediately put itself in our shoes and solve the problem in the best possible way when it comes to a new inquiry, which usually has to be completed under a lot of time pressure. For this purpose, very efficient processes are created in which cross-company project teams are established.’

‘I came to appreciate the team under Francis Nordmann very much. The following people in particular performed outstandingly.’

‘The team at Walder Wyss is composed of skilled and motivated individuals with a high degree of determination and willingness to think outside the box to achieve the desired outcome for their clients.’

‘The attorney handling our cases (Albane Selimi, MLaw), is always willing to go the extra mile for her clients. She takes a big picture approach to her profession and focusses on pragmatic solutions while never neglecting important details. This way to work matches very well with our approach to doing business and is very helpful when you need to move fast.’

Key clients

Artisa Group


Credit Suisse Asset Management (Schweiz) AG


Raiffeisen Futura Immo Fonds


Immofonds


Gold Tree


Swiss Finance & Property


Akara Funds


Immozins


Helvetica


Rhystadt Ltd (consortium of Swiss Pensions Funds)


Zuriba


F. Aeschbach


Brickvalue 2


Raststätte Knonaueramt


Work highlights


  • Advised IPI Partners, LLC, a global investment firm that specializes in investing in critical digital infrastructure assets, in the acquisition of Safe Host, a Switzerland-based data center owner and operator.
  • Advised Baloise Asset Management Ltd. as buyer in the course of a sale and lease back acquisition of several real estate in Basel with a privately owned sports clinic.
  • Advised public listed real estate fund Immofonds in the course its acquisition of four real estate in Lugano comprising of approximatively 50 apartments. It was Immofond’s first geographical reach to southern Switzerland.

Homburger

Homburger stands out for its strength in real estate related disputes, administrative proceedings, and investigations. The team also has capabilities with transactions, advising clients on contractual and regulatory matters related to property development. The real estate counsel often collaborates with specialists from other practice areas including capital markets, tax, and competition. Stefan Gäumann is a certified specialist who focuses exclusively on real estate and construction matters. He heads the team Daniel Hasler who focuses on transactional and corporate work.

Practice head(s):

Daniel Hasler; Stefan Gäumann


Other key lawyers:

Okan Uzun


Testimonials

‘The multilingual team covers expertise in all legal areas. The collaboration between the team’s experts is perfectly seamless. Thanks to the team’s in-depth experience, the understanding of client’s needs and the translation into a reliable, efficient and problem-solving legal approach are outstanding.’

‘Stefan Gäumann: Is very responsive and provides solid, concise and clear legal advice in all real estate and construction law matters, including management of real estate and construction law proceedings.’

‘The associates in Stefan Gäumann’s team (as in general at Homburger law firm) – in particular Okan Uzun – are excellent.’

‘The team is very responsive and able to produce deliverables in short notice.’

‘I have worked with Stefan Gäumann, who is a true professional and deal oriented individual.’

‘We had interaction solely with Mr Gäumann – There was no team visible – However, we are very satisfied with his work, and we would engage him in future situations.’

‘Multidisciplinary with other areas of law. Good distribution of work and tasks within the team. Many exchanges with clients’

‘Very good professional skills. Availability. Good preparation of files.’

Key clients

Swiss Prime Site


Novartis Pharma


AMAG


Givaudan


RUAG


ORPEA Group


Marc Rich Real Estate


Work highlights


  • Advised Swiss Prime Site on financing of acquisition of Akara Group.
  • Advised Swiss Prime Site Solutions on its authorization by FINMA as a fund management company and its first contractual real estate investment fund for qualified investors.
  • Advising and representing AMAG in a project for the construction of multistorey public parking facility with more than 450 parking spaces in the greater Zug area.

Kellerhals Carrard

Kellerhals Carrard provides expertise in connection with construction and public procurement law, and has a particular focus on clients from the real estate consulting industry including architects and engineers. The firm has extensive experience of sustainable real estate projects and all aspects of digitalisation in the construction sector. Team head Bernd Hauck regularly advises foreign construction clients and has a particular expertise in litigating Swiss court cases that are governed by German law. Jean-Rodolphe Fiechter has over 15 years of experience in cross-border real estate dispute resolution. The practice is strengthened by Isabelle Romy, a leading expert in environmental and construction law with vast experience in litigation and arbitration.

Practice head(s):

Bernd Hauck


 


Other key lawyers:

Jean-Rodolphe Fiechter; Isabelle Romy; Fabrizio Gabrielli


Testimonials

‘We work with Fabrizio Gabrielli’s team on a regular basis, and we are very happy with their pragmatic and informal support. We always get perfect legal and strategic support within the shortest delays.’

‘Fabrizio Gabrielli has a wide knowledge of all aspects regarding construction and the development of projects. We are happy to have him as our main support, also when it comes to defining a strategy in a case.’

‘I think this is a strong, proactive, practice with an interesting international outlook. I get to recommend Swiss lawyers once in a blue moon, but I would have no real concerns at all about sending my clients to them. All of my experiences with them have been good.’

‘I work at a big German law firm, and we need to have international partners who are at the same level. Kellerhals Carrard and its real estate team is one of those partners. The construction and real estate team covers the entire country, all languages (French, German, Italian and English, of course) and all sort of services, including notarial services The team (headed by Bernd Hauck) comprises more than 30 lawyers (partners and associates) – great resources for complex projects!’

‘Bernd Hauck is the go-to-guy for construction matters in Switzerland. Bernd’s out of the box thinking is phenomenal. Great approach and availability. I would not go elsewhere.’

‘The Kellerhals Carrad real estate and construction team is unique (as far as I can see) in the Swiss market as they have a very international outlook as to how they deliver services and advice in this sector.’

‘I have dealt principally with Bernd Hauck and Jean-Rodolphe Fiechter. They are both excellent. They are organised and responsive. Bernd in particular provides very focused and clear advice on complex issues. I know Jean-Rodolphe to be an expert on legal issues related to BIM which is a complicated area.’

‘The Kellerhals Carrad real estate and construction team is unique in the Swiss market as they have a very international outlook as to how they deliver services and advice in this sector.

Key clients

Bricks Group AG


CSL Behring


EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg


Grand Cariçaie / ARSUD


Immobilienpartner


Implenia


Itten+Brechbühl AG


Public Transport Canton on Baselland (BLT Baselland Transport AG)


STS Group / STS Group Switzerland AG


Swiss Association of Consulting Engineers / usic-Stiftung


UBS Fund Management / UBS „Sima“


University of Basel


Ville de Lausanne (city of Lausanne)


Work highlights


Pestalozzi

Pestalozzi provides comprehensive advice on all real estate matters for clients operating in different industry sectors including life sciences, retail, hospitality, and transportation. The firm has particular experience assisting in the development of hotel resorts, as well as representing public authorities and bidders on public procurement matters. Paola Wullschleger focuses on tenancy and environmental law and has vast experience handling complex real estate disputes. Andrea Rohrer-Lippuner, who is an expert in all regulatory and contractual real estate matters, regularly represents public authorities and bidders in cantonal and federal procurement matters. Practice head Michael Lips is notably trilingual in English, French and German.

Practice head(s):

Michael Lips


Other key lawyers:

Paola Wullschleger; Andrea Rohrer-Lippuner; Evelyn Frei


Testimonials

‘The team is very capable and responsive, and clearly knowledgeable about all aspects of environmental law.’

‘Michael Lips is super responsive and thorough in his advice. Evelyn Frei is an excellent associate and a pleasure to work with.’

‘Long-term business relationship with Pestalozzi Attorneys at Law. Excellent understanding of the client’s needs. Customer-oriented support and way of thinking. Good skills to translate legally complex circumstances into customer-friendly language.’

‘Easily accessible, very human, and friendly. Good sense of humor. It’s about the success of the project for the client, with the client. Even if we are not “a big client” we feel very important to them.’

‘Great collaboration and partnership. You really don’t feel you are working with an external company. Solution oriented, they came with solutions and really create value.’

‘Strong technical knowledge and ability to translate complex matters in simple, understandable content. Availability and response time is excellent. Able to deal with complex matters and provide actionable solutions to the customer.’

‘We have worked with the team at Pestalozzi for many years and have an excellent working relationship with them. They provide timely and commercial advice on very complex EHS-related regulatory and compliance issues and are always available to provide further clarification where required.’

‘The breadth and depth of the team is very impressive, as well as the fast turnaround on projects that are live.’

Key clients

HOK International, Bjarke Ingels Group and 10:8 Architekten


Specialized Bicycle Components


Confiserie Sprüngli


Prevalis Pension Fund


Oberalp Group


Jeannet Immobilien


KPR Construction Management


Matterhorn Peak


Navigare Hotel Resorts


Johnson & Johnson (various group entities, in particular Actelion Pharmaceuticals Ltd)


McDonald’s (various group entities)


The Capra Hotel


Zurich University Hospital


Work highlights


  • Advised the international general planner team consisting of HOK International Ltd, Bjarke Ingels Group and 10:8 Architekten GmbH with regard to the new Dock A with a new tower and a new dock root at Zurich Airport.
  • Advised the leading bicycle producer Specialized in building a new Swiss and European headquarter located in central Switzerland.
  • Advised the Prevalis Pension Fund on the construction and purchase of an entire development, consisting of several rental flats.

VISCHER

VISCHER has active experience in urban housing development, public infrastructure projects and commercial development. Raphael Butz specializes in litigation & arbitration and is an expert in handling complex construction and tenancy disputes. Roland Müller, who focuses on complex real transactions and investments, leads the team with Maxime Chollet who has broad experience drafting and negotiating real estate agreement, complex leases, and work contracts. Andreas Albrecht has particular knowledge of planning and zoning law.

Practice head(s):

Roland M. Müller; Maxime Chollet


Other key lawyers:

Andreas Albrecht; Raphael Butz


Testimonials

‘Regarding real estate, I worked regularly with Maxime Chollet who is involved in many real estate cases. He always has a pragmatic approach when dealing with complex issues.’

‘Dr. Roland Müller has apart from his vast experience and network a very solid, cooperative and structured approach that allows to find good solutions for all parties.’

‘The VISCHER team has regularly supported us in various construction projects. Response times and availability have always been excellent. Advice and draft texts are clear and meaningful. The time charged is reasonable. VISCHER’s support is always extremely valuable.’

‘Andreas Albrecht has outstanding knowledge in all legal matters concerning real estate projects. He is well versed in the industry standards of architectural contracts and construction contracts. He is also very familiar with public planning and construction law and public procurement law. In addition to his in-depth legal knowledge, he is an excellent negotiator.’

‘An efficient and responsive support team.’

‘Maxime Chollet – His understanding of the transactions and its key elements was absolutely excellent. Negotiated on our behalf with tenacity and success. Excellent and responsive drafting. Exceptional execution. The transactions very time-efficient and billing quite reasonable.’

‘Very smart and very good at finding the best way to approach the counterparty. Understands the business’ needs and limits very well. Very good at finding a balance between business needs and the best legal solution.’

Key clients

University Hospital Basel


Helvetia Insurance Switzerland


Spiegelfeld Immobilien AG


Procimmo SA, Le-Mont-sur-Lausanne


Einwohnergemeinde Reinach


Migros / Sigma, Partner Central Group


Fédération des Eaux-Vives


MEININGER Hotels Group


Work highlights


  • Advised University Hospital Basel in a CHF 390 million construction project (new clinic building).
  • Advised Helvetia Insurance in the transfer of a real estate portfolio to a real estate fund vehicle.
  • Advised PROCIMMO SWISS COMMERCIAL FUND II (PSCFII) in the acquisition of the SUN and VSP industry sites from SUN Bürglen AG.

BianchiSchwald LLC

BianchiSchwald LLC advises clients on a diverse array of real estate matters, including financing and investment vehicles, public procurement and zoning, urban and rural property law. The tram also advises foreign clients in connection with Lex Koller, and is home to Yves De Coulon who has over 20 years of experience in transactions, construction, and mobility planning;  he co-leads the team with Marc Metzger who is a go-to for private real estate investors, as well as various construction companies.

Practice head(s):

Yves de Coulon; Marc Metzger


Testimonials

‘Specialised in the construction industry with an excellent reactivity.’

‘The firm is very well known for its vast experience in the field, they are very familiar with the real estate market (as well as the health clinic market). BianchiSchwald has in depth knowledge and a broad team for real estate matters. The firm’s partners and associates are very skilled in these fields of business (health care, hospitals and wellness) and are highly committed. They are extremely responsive and flexible, very knowledgeable and accurate. The firm’s billing practice reflects the economic value behind its work very well.’

Key clients

Casacuberta Inmuebles


Hôtel Beau-Rivage SA Genève


Peptone Ltd


VAMED Management und Services Schweiz AG


ZSC Lions AG


ZSC Lions Arena Immobilien AG


Work highlights


  • Advised ZSC Lions Arena Immobilien AG|ZSC Lions Arena Immobilien AG on all aspects related to the building of a new ice hockey arena. This included the tender of a catering partner as well as the negotiations of the catering agreement and the respecting lease agreements, and any and all aspects regarding project execution and management as well as construction disputes.

LALIVE

LALIVE ‘s real estate group has strong expertise in dispute resolution regarding real estate, construction, and infrastructure matters. The practice regularly provides representation in construction arbitrations, as well as cross border and domestic litigation proceedings. The team heads are Michael E Schneider and and Bernd Ehle.

Practice head(s):

Bernd Ehle; Joachim Knoll


Other key lawyers:

Sam Moss


Key clients

DSG Yapi San Tic A.S.


Republic of Latvia


Work highlights


  • Represented Switzerland in the first ICSID arbitration against the country. The arbitration arose out of an alleged expropriation of real estate property and the claimant invoked the Switzerland-Hungary BIT for a USD 1.2 billion claim.
  • Represented a Middle Eastern design company in an USD 798 million ICC arbitration regarding a dispute related to an infrastructure project in the Middle East.
  • Represented a Turkish construction company in a USD 300 million ICSID investment treaty arbitration against Saudi Arabia in relation to a construction project. The investor is invoking the 2006 Turkey-Saudi Arabia bilateral investment treaty.

Mangeat Attorneys at Law LLC

Mangeat Attorneys at Law LLC acts for both private and public clients on a range of real estate and construction matters including development, contract negotiation, due diligence, financing and leaseback transactions. The practice also provides advice on environmental land matters. Co-practice head Joël Chevallaz has longstanding experience advising clients on high-value real estate transactions and representing clients in complex construction litigation. Pierre Rüttimann , who also leads the team, is specialised in real estate securitization and the development of complex residential portfolios.

Practice head(s):

Joël Chevallaz; Pierre Rüttimann


 


Testimonials

‘Great team. Everyone focuses on the client’s goal. Always available.’

‘Everyone has strong skills and remains available to satisfy the client.’

‘They are a leading firm in Geneva and especially in real estate.’

‘Joel Chevallaz has a unique expertise in real estate in Geneva with his double background: lawyer and real estate entrepreneur. That makes him a leading professional in Geneva and French Swiss speaking area with a know-how and precious connections. He’s a deal maker and a true expert.’

 

Key clients

TCA Asset Management SA


Helvetic Capital Holding SA


La Scie SA


Rivlin France SA


RES-Invest SA


Copimmob Esplanade/Petit-Senn société coopérative


Egg-Telsa SA (Geneva Airport project)


JDRM Immobilier SA


Les Belvédères SA


Sogeca SA


Work highlights


  • Advised TCA and structured successfully for TCA 2 private bonds issues to finance the 5 stars Hotel Marriot Aegon Autograf in Mykonos (Greece) and a real-estate development in Switzerland (value of CHF 10 million and 5 million).
  • Advised Helvetic Capital Holding SA on a real estate development in Geneva for a value of CHF 45 million. This is a development project of twelve luxury apartments in the high-end neighborhood of Geneva.
  • Advised La Scie SA on a commercial real estate development in Geneva (Versoix) with Lidl, a major German retail group, as the main future buyer.

Wenger Plattner

Wenger Plattner regularly acts for both public and private clients on large infrastructure development projects. The practice has particular expertise in conducting buyer due diligence for the acquisition of commercial or residential real estate, and is led by Placidus Plattner who works with a diverse range of clients and has experience in public proceedings. He is supported by Beat Stalder who regularly supports government agencies and parliamentary bodies on real estate legislation.

Practice head(s):

Placidus Plattner


Key clients

Energie 360° AG


Immobilien ETHZF AG


Brandenberger + Ruosch AG


IST Investmentstiftung


The Swiss Federal Pension Fund PUBLICA


Genossenschaft Migros Aare


Terresta Immobilien und Verwaltungs AG


Stiftung Innovationspark Zürich


Work highlights


  • Advised and represented Stiftung Innovationspark Zürich in a landmark federal court litigation case on planning law.

Wenger Vieli Ltd

Wenger Vieli Ltd offers advice on all aspects of real estate development with a focus on both the transactional and regulatory aspects of property development. The team has practical expertise in tenancy law, as well as technical expertise in architecture technologies such as Building Information Modelling. The practice is led by Roman Heiz who has over 20 years of experience, and is home to Nadine Zanetti who represents clients in construction-related appeals.

Practice head(s):

Roman Heiz


Other key lawyers:

Nadine Zanetti


Testimonials

‘Deep knowledge of the practice and a great understanding of the people they engage with. There is also a good moral compass in the team, which I really appreciate.’

‘Nadine Zanetti and Roman Heiz displayed a deep professionalism, and I can highly recommend them both.’

‘Good expertise, committed and equipped with the necessary industry knowledge, we benefit from rapid and comprehensive advice that enables us to make the correct decisions and assert our interests.’

‘The team is very professional and knowledgeable in their field. They act with the client’s interest at heart.’

‘Nadine Zanetti – exceptionally professional, well versed in her area, absolute pleasure to work with. Roman Heiz – always makes sure the team benefits from his vast experience and takes the best course of action.’

‘The team is very good in working together. They are all in the process as much as they needed and have all access to the relevant information about the case at any time. They use all technology which is absolutely up to date and are all very quick.’

‘The partner who works for us has a very strong knowledge of his field. He is a very quick thinker. This makes the work with him extraordinary.’

‘Roman Heiz is characterized by the fact that he finds constructive solutions in a balanced and goal-oriented manner, depending on the situation, which often makes further legal disputes unnecessary. Nadine Zanetti supports him in this in a very efficient manner.’

Key clients

Central


RFR Development


Personalvorsorgestiftung der Ärzte und Tierärzte PAT-BVG (Pension Fund)


Work highlights


  • Advised Matterhorn Immobilien Holding on EUR30m sale of commercial building.
  • Advised RFR Development on EUR 25m high-profile renovation and construction project in the heart of Zurich.

Blum & Grob Attorneys at Law Ltd

Blum & Grob Attorneys at Law Ltd specialises in several areas of real estate including acquisition and financing transactions, related M&A, and disputes. Practice head David Schwaninger has a focus on building projects, including new technologies such as Building Information Modelling and real estate data management. Co-practice head Hans-Ulrich Kupsch regularly represents clients in international and local construction disputes, and has a particular expertise in the drafting of contracts and in disputes based on FIDIC rules. Gian Marchet Kasper and Adrian Hirzel also co-lead the department.

 

Practice head(s):

David Schwaninger; Gian Marchet Kasper; Adrian Hirzel; Hans-Ulrich Kupsch


Testimonials

‘A team that covers the needs throughout the life cycle of a property.’

‘We see particular strengths in the area of real estate transactions, tenancy law, digital construction (BIM – Building Information Modeling) and data management throughout the life cycle of real estate as well as contracts under FIDIC and real estate litigation.’

‘David Schwaninger: Lawyer and partner of the firm, who not only looks for problems, but also offers solutions. In particular, he has a profound understanding of the issues that arise and is a shrewd tactician.’

‘The team is very professional, acts together and very quickly. The consultations are very practical and protect us in all dimensions. They think on the business level but also and of course on the legal level.’

‘The focus is on our business goals and not on the fact that it has to be as many hours in consulting as possible.’

Key clients

ELEKTRO-MATERIAL AG


Siemens Switzerland Ltd


Zaltana Properties Ltd


Viva Real AG


Zürichparis AG


Tiger Stores (Switerzland AG)


Wireless Communications AG


Meier + Steinauer Partner AG


WieInvest AG


WieRe AG


Property One Partners AG


Property One Investors AG


Hyrock AG


Loreda Real Estate GmbH


C Land AG


Work highlights


  • Advised Loreda Real Estate GmbH on the sale of a large RE Portfolio with estates all across Switzerland to one of the major Swiss Banks. Total transaction volume >500m CHF.
  • Advised WieInvest AG on mezzanine financings in a toral value of >150 million to various private and institutional real estate investors and developers. This included the negotiation of financing and security (including alternative security) documentation.
  • Advised Wireless Communications in leasing and further real estate matters within the mobile technology sector.

BMG Avocats

BMG Avocats’ real estate practice focuses on land use planning, rental and lease contracts, and construction projects. The firm advises clients on a range of issues including environmental law, contract negotiation and disputes, acting for a range of clients including institutional investors, commercial parties, and public entities. The practice is headed by Isabelle Salomé Daïna and Nicolas Wisard.

Practice head(s):

Isabelle Salomé Daïna; Nicolas Wisard


Testimonials

‘The advice given is of high added value compared to other firms with which we have had to collaborate. The firm’s commitment is also flawless. These two key elements of success mean that we regularly mandate this firm.’

‘Knowledge of cases at your fingertips, excellent ability to react and counter the arguments of the opposing party during hearings and during unforeseen events. Me Isabelle Salomé Daïna is extremely efficient.’

Work highlights


Prager Dreifuss AG

Prager Dreifuss AG has capabilities in the fields of real estate transactions, financing, private construction law and commercial leases. The team regularly advises hotel operators and project developers and has overseen several hotel developments projects, and has expertise in representing private clients and high-net-worth individuals. Hans-Ulrich Brunner heads the practice and has extensive knowledge in construction business operations, architecture and engineering practices and real estate transactions.

Practice head(s):

Dr. Hans-Ulrich Brunner


Work highlights


  • Advised a real estate company on a CHF 70 million residential property project.