“The prominence of Le Schuylkill on Monaco’s skyline pushed us to reimagine the building’s silhouette whilst respecting the building’s mid-century architectural legacy.
We wanted to demonstrate that heritage, architectural innovation and decarbonisation can come together successfully.”
Sylvia Ratkowski Pastor
SIX DECADES ON THE MONACO SKYLINE
Today’s guardian of Le Schuylkill, Sylvia Ratkowski Pastor, is the granddaughter of Gildo Pastor, who had the vision of making a remarkable addition to Monaco’s architectural landscape. Opening in 1963, it was the Principality’s first high-rise residential building and has become a defining feature of Monte Carlo’s skyline. Named in honour of Princess Grace and her birthplace, the building takes its name from the Schuylkill River in Philadelphia.
THE CORE AND THE CROWN
Starting work in 2021, ZHA Architects and SQUARE Architecte have collaborated closely with Sylvia Ratkowski Pastor on the transformation of Le Schuylkill. With no original plans or structural records available, the building had to be rediscovered from within. Extensive surveying, monitoring and modelling informed a new vision to renovate and extend the tower while comprehensively reinforcing its existing structure.
The lowest seven storeys are embedded in the rock face, while the upper 17 storeys are divided into three individual blocks, each organised around a vertical circulation core. The tower’s two uppermost floors have been replaced with a new three-storey crown that unifies the existing structure.
At the upper levels, a sophisticated structural intervention consolidates the tower’s three independent volumes while creating exceptional duplex penthouses. The building is also being enveloped in advanced thermal systems and connected to Monaco’s innovative seawater cooling network, significantly enhancing its environmental performance.
Internally and externally, Dame Zaha Hadid’s signature curved forms redefine the building’s silhouette, maintaining a strong dialogue with the 1960s modernism that originally defined its prominence.
SUSTAINABILITY FIRST AND FOREMOST
Finished to an exceptional standard, the apartments feature elegant marble or parquet flooring, bespoke Poliform kitchens and dressings, complemented by premium Siemens appliances and Hansgrohe fittings. Security and comfort are assured with Dierre doors and double glazing with integrated shading.
100% renewable energy sources
Powered by Monaco’s seawater network, the building operates without fossil fuels.
58% less energy than before
A complete system overhaul cuts energy demand by more than half compared to the original building.
Top-tier Environmental Certification
Recognised under the Silver BD2M environmental accreditation scheme for outstanding performance in Mediterranean conditions.
75% structure retained
Reusing the existing frame cuts embodied carbon and construction waste significantly.
Water recycling
Rainwater and greywater systems reduce demand on local resources.
SECURE YOUR RESIDENCE
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