At Unica Capital, under the direction of CEO Byron Baciocchi and a dedicated team of designers and craftspeople, our iconic and unique properties embrace life’s treasures, and focus on them to evoke emotion and a sense of belonging. Our approach is defined by a deep-rooted respect for heritage and setting, and from sympathetic restorations of centuries-old buildings, to creating new, bold architectural statements, we seek to preserve period details and make them shine, or create architectural gems that are as dynamic as they are welcoming.

By elevating living spaces to match the demands of modern life, our philosophy allows us to create homes that are authentic, comfortable, yet sophisticated, marrying the charm of traditional architecture – or ground-breaking design – with contemporary elegance and total convenience.

In these remarkable properties, in unparalleled locations in Geneva, Founex and the most exclusive Alpine resorts, each Unica creation is designed to sit sympathetically within its surroundings. Outside and inside spaces blend, with a flow that lends itself to harmonious day-to-day living. Ostentation for its own sake makes way for crafting homes that while still showcasing the impressive and inspiring, are imbued with character, atmosphere, warmth and purpose.

From the privacy of our homes, floor-to-ceiling windows frame breathtaking views, and soaring ceilings add majesty without overwhelming. In our villas, chalets and sprawling city apartments, soothing natural materials feed the senses. Local hand-hewed wood and Italian marble soften, as do textural elements including plush upholstery, exquisite plastering, sculptural accents, bespoke lighting and soul-enriching art. Marble-clad bathrooms offer moments of indulgence, nubuck-covered walls draw the touch, and made-to-measure kitchens with state-of-the-art appliances from Miele and Wolf are the beating heart of the home.

Every element of a Unica property is considered, allowing a smooth transition from morning to night. Light-filled living spaces raise the spirits, while private docks and gallery-like car showrooms allow for elegant arrivals and departures. Wellness is made easier in state-of-the-art gyms, sumptuous spas, and heated pools. The backdrop is set for unforgettable gatherings with wine cellars, inviting bars, chef-calibre kitchens and staff accommodation. Exquisite furnishings with custom-made fabrics further enhance the canvas ready for life-affirming family moments, while bedroom suites are soothing sanctuaries of peace, perfect for a tranquil night of rest

Throughout each residence natural colour palettes lend harmony, and in the these most sought-after prime locations residents can find the privacy to unwind and feel the simple luxury of coming home – yet still enjoy access to excellent schools and the fastest transport connections.

Our properties are not just trophy homes; they are homes designed to be lived in. Comfort is integral to every design decision, ensuring that each space is as practical as it is beautiful. Whether it’s the seamless flow between the indoor and outdoor spaces or the arrangement of furniture to create inviting gathering areas, our aim is to craft environments where families can create memories and find true relaxation, while appreciating and exploring the finest that life has to offer. That, for Unica Capital, is the treasure of a life lived well, and how we strive to make a house a home.

In both markets, one thing is clearly emerging, the robustness of prime properties in the right locations. Following the UK’s summer elections last year JLL published research into the prime commercial London market, showing that in this sector, leasing continued to grow, with year-to-date figures up 5%. Rents achieved also showed an increase of a very healthy 10%. Interestingly the West End (along with East London) showed the strongest uplift as opposed to the City of London, and Unica Capital’s most recent London acquisitions in Soho and Mayfair have benefitted from this trend. Further, earlier in the year, BNP Paribas forecast that total annual returns for prime commercial space in London would reach 11% by 2028.

JLL’s Future of Work Survey for last year also pointed to a more stabilised hybrid working pattern in London, with 44% of people surveyed working all five days in the office, 42% working 3 or 4 days, and only 9% working 1 to 2 days. With companies now more able to plan for their needs into the future, demand is sure to continue to increase for commercial space that can act as a draw to employees, and help with their retention.

It is not only in London, or in the commercial sector, that prime real estate is proving to be the surest path for stable assets that will give continued return on investment. In Switzerland the luxury chalet market continues to bring interest from abroad. Barclays Private Bank last month took a look at the market, and reported a steady 3.8% annual increase in values after a larger surge before, during the pandemic years. Then, the ability to work remotely incentivised those who were able to do so to work from luxurious and tranquil settings in Switzerland. Today this still persists, as record numbers of visitors flock in summer months, transforming winter holiday escapes to year-round destinations. Low interest rates in Switzerland continue to entice investment, as Ultra High Net Worth Individuals (UHNWIs) use their liquidity to make all cash purchases and further insulate the market. Demand for prime residential properties has outstripped supply for many years, and after the new UK Government’s first budget abolishing tax benefits for non-domiciled individuals, more people have sought a new primary residence, and look to Switzerland with its favourable tax systems and stable economy.

As well as elevated Alpine resorts like Crans-Montana and Gstaad, cities like Geneva, and close by on the shores of Lac Leman in the municipality of Founex, have seen increased attention and demand. Knight Frank in its Global 2025 forecast last month saw Geneva leading the pack of cities (along with New York, Paris and Dubai) that saw growth. The report cited Switzerland’s strong currency, low taxes, and quality of life, as key factors heightening the city’s appeal, as well as a forthcoming reduction in income tax specifically in the Canton of Geneva.

In both London and Switzerland Unica Capital is identifying the very best for investors, and exercising its expertise to navigate the sometimes complex acquisitions processes, especially in Switzerland. Its knowledge and understanding of how best to increase an assets value is also key to ensuring investors have certainty in the long term, even when other markets dip, and can seize the opportunity to not only protect their wealth, but also see it flourish.

Premium Office Locations in Central London Remain Strong

One of the most enduring trends in property investment is the continued appeal of premium office locations in Central London, particularly in the prestigious West End. Unica has long identified this area as a cornerstone of stable and long-term value growth. This property has been valuable for centuries – that isn’t changing any time soon.

Despite fluctuations in office demand due to remote working trends, premium office spaces in heritage-rich areas like Westminster will remain in high demand – the vacancy rate in the West End was just 5.4% at the end of July, according to Knight Frank. The historical and political significance of this area, combined with the scarcity of new office space due to planning restrictions, ensures that it will continue to be a safe investment. Labour-led Governments typically increase the size of the civil service, which means office space in Whitehall and surrounding areas will be in even greater demand.

Unica anticipates that investors will increasingly focus on these limited premium opportunities as the government seeks to accommodate a growing workforce. Whether for civil service offices, high-end consultancy firms, or lobbying organisations, the prestige of Westminster office addresses will likely drive rental yields and long-term capital appreciation in the area. But it will also require some investment: These top tenants want more than just the postcode, they want an office with modern amenities such as showers, high-speed internet, and incredible energy efficiency.

Growing Interest in Switzerland Due to Non-Dom Changes

Another trend we are seeing at Unica is a growing interest in residential properties in Switzerland, driven largely by the upcoming changes to the UK’s Non-Dom (Non-Domiciled) rules. The changes will significantly impact high-net-worth individuals, particularly as they will be drawn into inheritance tax liability, many of whom have historically benefited from favourable tax conditions while residing in the UK.

Switzerland has long been a popular destination for wealthy individuals due to its stable economy, privacy-focused financial systems, and favourable tax regime. With the potential tightening of UK tax laws, including potential boosts to Capital Gains Tax and the Inheritance Tax, Unica has observed a marked uptick in property searches for luxury homes in Swiss cities like Zurich and Geneva. These areas offer not only financial advantages but also high standards of living, top-tier healthcare, and proximity to major international hubs.

Back to the Office: A renewed demand for office space

The trend toward remote work that took hold during the pandemic has been gradually reversing, and 2025 is poised to see an increase in office demand as more businesses return fully to in-office policies. This shift is particularly evident in large cities where in-person collaboration is becoming increasingly valued once again, especially in sectors such as finance, technology, and professional services.

Unica has observed a growing interest in modern, flexible office spaces that cater to these evolving needs. Companies are focusing on creating environments that promote productivity, collaboration, and employee well-being. This is leading to a surge in demand for office spaces that offer high-quality amenities, cutting-edge technology, and sustainable design.

We expect this trend to have a positive impact on the commercial property market, particularly in urban centres where office space has experienced a temporary dip in demand. As more businesses commit to maintaining a physical presence in city centres, we anticipate a revival of interest in prime office locations not only in London but also in other major business hubs around the world.

How You Can Win in 2025

At Unica, we are focused on identifying the property trends that offer the greatest potential for long-term growth and stability. Premium office locations in London will continue to be a bedrock of investment security, while the evolving Non-Dom rules in the UK are driving interest in Swiss residential markets. The return-to-office movement also signals a renewed demand for quality office spaces. 2025 is going to be a great year for the luxury property market.