Together with HOMI Design Studio, we participated in the Swiss National Bank competition for the new banknote series, which is set to enter circulation from 2030. Out of over 300 submissions, we were selected as one of twelve teams for the final phase, a major milestone for us.

For this project, we deliberately partnered with HOMI to pool our different perspectives and expertise. This collaboration allows us to combine conceptual depth, design quality, and innovative approaches at the highest level.

At the heart of the brief is the development of a new visual identity for Swiss banknotes, taking into account complex requirements for design, security, and narrative. The guiding theme defined by the SNB, “Switzerland and its altitudes,” forms the conceptual basis of our approach.

CONCEPT:
SWITZERLAND AS A LIVING SPACE

Our design does not treat nature as a backdrop, but as an active space in which people shape, protect, and innovate. The different altitudes structure the series and provide its thematic framework. Each banknote tells the story of the interplay between nature and human creativity, presenting a multifaceted narrative of diversity, responsibility, and progress.

At the heart of each banknote are striking main motifs that are conceptually linked to the respective altitudes as well as to cultural, economic, and technological aspects of Switzerland. This creates a nuanced picture of coexistence, from the shores of lakes to the high alpine world.

The series is clearly structured and follows a consistent design logic that provides clarity and ensures instant recognition. At the same time, we place great importance on diversity: all regions of Switzerland are included and their distinctive characteristics are brought to light. The design combines strong visual impact with a high level of detail and uses a nuanced colour palette inspired by the respective habitats.

Visually, we combine narrative illustrations, photographic elements, and cartographic layers with security features. The obverse and reverse sides complement each other, uniting natural, cultural, and infrastructural aspects of Switzerland into a coherent overall image.

Beyond the individual banknotes, a larger system emerges: together they form a Swiss cross, symbolising solidarity and the interplay between the different altitudes. The series invites viewers not only to look at the banknotes individually but to understand them as a cohesive visual narrative of Switzerland.

As part of the competition, we received a detailed brief in Zurich and, by July 2025, developed a conceptually sound and visually distinctive project that reflects our shared approach and way of working.