Branch Bank in Hettingen/ Ecker Architekten

Architects: Ecker Architekten
Location: Heidelberg, Germany
Client: Sparkasse Neckartal-Odenwald
Construction Area: 100 sqm
Project year: 2006-2007
Photographs: Constantin Mayer, Köln

A new glass banking pavilion for Hettingen signals an investment in the future of the community. The transparency of the façade invites bank clientele while confidently demonstrating state-of-the-art security measures. The modern building contrasts markedly with the surrounding residential zone of traditional houses and gardens. Hand-polished aluminum curtain walls suspend glass panes of 3.7 meters in height. The flat roof edge conceals exterior sun-shades. The timeless, modern appearance extends through the building interiors.

A free-standing cabinet wall conceals all of the technical functions of the bank, and gives character to the spaces for customer service and private transactions. The building is supported by six cruciform columns, and lighting, cooling and security monitoring devices are concealed in a plenum above a ceiling of fine aluminum louvers. With this new building, the bank has re-established its presence in this traditional town with a decidedly modern architecture.

Source: archdaily.com