The design provides separate entrances and reception areas for customers and office workers. These areas are linked by expansive marble flooring, which extends up walls and across reception desks.
"The bank wanted a reception area that was warm and welcoming," says Walls. "We have introduced sweeping curves to the marble and carpet flooring to provide an easy flow from the entrance."
The curves on the floor are mimicked by curved ceiling elements slightly lowered plasterboard bulkheads and cutouts that help define the reception and internal walkways. Comfortable lounge seating, similar to that of a five-star hotel, is also a feature of the main reception area. Here, television screens display promotional items and the current Forex index.
In keeping with the bank's desire to incorporate state-of-the-art technology, the reception area provides a computerised scanner that reads customers' personal ID cards, which are available to all Malaysian citizens. This information, along with relevant details of customers' accounts, is then relayed to tellers.
The curved, main reception desk, which features a wenge wood laminate, has a corporate blue backdrop. A large illuminated screen, perforated with an Islamic pattern, is positioned to one side. There are also curved, slump-glass screens that help to contain the space visually, while providing a sense of transparency. This entire area is illuminated at night, and can be seen from the adjacent ATM lobby.
A new atrium and stairs near the rear entrance were designed to replace an ageing semi-circular staircase. Curved cut-outs in the ceiling draw the eye up to the vaulted space.
"The atrium was a way to bring extra light, albeit artificial light, into the building," says Walls. "This space could easily have looked like an oversized lift shaft, but we have designed it to make a strong visual statement it highlights the simple, elegant look we set out to achieve. It's a very contemplative space, and is often used by staff as a quiet breakout area."