Sensitive transformation of a standard office building in the centre of Milan to create a new efficient, contemporary, and bespoke workspace that is reflective of the Banca Ifis brand - one of Italy’s most prestigious commercial and corporate banking firms.
Whilst carefully preserving and enhancing the buildings architectural features, the elegant new LEED certified office that boasts a thriving 260sgm green wall, one of the largest in Milan, to radically transform its presence within the urban block. Internally, the contemporary office now provides a new welcoming lobby area, 300 flexible workspaces, exhibition and training facilities, recreation areas for yoga and other sports, as well as four multi-functional terraces referred to as the green lungs of the office space.
Following the decision for Banca Ifis to redesign their Corporate Identity, the decision was also made to refurbish over 30 Italian locations to reflect this new identity. One Works, together with RBS Group, were appointed for the first of these refurbishments with the delicate transformation of their Corporate Headquarters in Milan, a standard linear building located on a narrow street and constructed in the 1950’s.
The existing street façade has been fully restored and enhanced, whilst the side façade has been completely redesigned to become the building’s new main façade, featuring a new 260sgm green wall that is reflective of the client's sustainability principles. Comprising 30 types of plants, shrubs, flowers, and herbs that emphasize the seasonal colors, the wall generates a beautiful natural environment within an otherwise harsh urban environment, while supporting the reduction of carbon emissions. In addition, the new entrance lobby have been carefully re-designed as part of the building architecture to help softly transition visitors and staff from the classic urban outdoor environment to the more intimate and articulated interior space. In addition to the well-planned and flexible workspaces to support the growing needs of 300 staff, the new contemporary office building also features exhibition and training facilities, coffee break-out areas, recreation areas for yoga, and four multi-functional terraces.
The new office has also been designed to achieve a LEED Certification and introduces a series of improvements in relation to sustainability, environmental quality, natural lighting, comfort, and wellbeing. Innovative green solutions also include the use of Airlite paint used in indoor spaces, which is designed to purify the air from pollution and bacteria, as if people were breathing in 2,650 m2 of forest, or low-flow sanitary equipment that allows a 37% reduction in drinking water consumption.
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