An impressive entrance

The first impression that a visitor receives on stepping inside an office is liable to shape his or her views of the business.

The owners of this private bank wanted it to have a sophisticated, but intimate atmosphere, so to achieve this, interior architect Isabelle Miaja has played with a mix of materials and colours, and the way they interact with light.

"We used different types of woods for various areas. Darker woods were introduced where we wanted to create a sophisticated look. To make the entrance and waiting areas feel more intimate and human, we softened the lighting. Visitors enter the bank from the building's main lobby, which is quite grandiose, so we wanted to create a more personal feel for our reception area," Miaja says.

Stainless steel and chrome have been used to give the bank's own lobby an uncluttered, architectural look. Artwork lacquered pots and an antique Chinese wheel has an Asian flavour.

"Our aim was that clients visiting the bank should feel as if they are coming into an office in Asia, rather than into the headquarters of a European bank," Miaja says.

Inside the reception area, materials such as leather chairs give the waiting area the appearance of a comfortable gentleman's club. Artwork was also chosen for its masculine qualities. Three-dimensional images carved on stainless steel catch the light and provide a subject for conversation.

Another conversation starter is the water feature with its illuminated onyx column contrasting with shiny black pebbles and granite slabs.

"We want people to react when they see the artwork and speak to each other," says the designer.

Because of the way the bank operates, most of the office space is divided into meeting rooms of various sizes, where clients and their account holders can meet privately.

"We have given each room its own personality. Each space has its own style and suits different purposes. Account holders have the flexibility to choose meeting rooms where meals can be served and eaten or rooms for more informal occasions, such as tea or a drink at the end of the day."

The offices also contain a large boardroom for 14 to 16 people. Glass panels can be frosted when a meeting is in progress or clear at other times.

" We gave this space a formal look and a sense of drama, in line with the type of decisions that are made here," says the designer.

Story by: Trendsideas