Bakirkure Architects

Bank Headquarters

Exploring and Thinking outside the Box

The renovation of ING Bank Turkey Headquarters was started with a project workout within the participation of current employees. By getting their current space experiences, it was aimed to analyze their needs and expectations to create a more dynamic and ergonomic office atmosphere that also meets their needs. Workshop outcomes show that majority of the participants is not happy with the color scheme, workstation placement and space organization. Meeting room amounts are not enough and not designed efficiently. Besides, no common spaces exist for socialization. Three out of four participants need to be isolated to concentrate on their work and 90% of them want to switch spaces within the working hours.

Three out of four participants are not satisfied with the lighting; nine out of ten people think air conditioning is weak. Majority of the employees is suffering from headaches, backaches and as a result they feel tired. Another spotted problem is about hierarchy. Instead they prefer working altogether. Benefitting from the opportunities of today’s technology, mobile working corners were created. These spaces were planned to provide alternative working spaces for an alternative working style. The «personal desks» were long gone and the only thing left for employees is to choose where to work with their laptops.

All of the employees working at office communicate through smart devices and wireless networks which are accessible internally. To reach the maximum height of the ceiling, exposed ceiling is used instead of suspended ceiling. Jet nozzle insufflation technology is used for office spaces and meeting rooms. Colors and advertising works were used surrounding the space; «feels like home comfort» sitting areas and playfields were created, each differing from flat to flat. The kitchen is hold with a new understanding and container cafes to grab and drink something in were created. Phone booths for the private phone calls and lockers used by each and every employee to keep their personal belongings and mails were added to the space.

Also the food court has become the heart of the project by splitting it up for multiple usages. These new flexible functions enable to meet, read and socialize with the help of social stairs, winter garden, and basketball court. Food court is converted into a very active and useful space(s) instead of using it only for one hour of the whole day.