Addis Ababa United Bank Pierces the Clouds with Sharp Squamous Cladding
Amelia Roblin — March 20, 2013 — Art & Design
References: soehnepartner & plusmood
Living up to its classification as a sky-scraper, the Addis Ababa United Bank seems to scratch the soft surface of the atmosphere with its glass shard fenestration that takes on the appearance of scales. Proposed by Söhne & Partner Architekten for the Ethiopian capital, this structure would easily tower over its surrounding urban fabric.
Designed in collaboration with BET Architects, this project would house a public branch of the financial establishment on the ground floor, providing easy access for pedestrians approaching from the sidewalk or the landscaped plaza. Fountains and trees would lure passers-by beneath a sheltering gold-clad mass that features an enormous circular skylight and a rooftop garden. Shopping would be located at street level of the Addis Ababa United Bank and only employees would be able to look out from the impressive diamond-shaped windows that cover the high-rise.
Designed in collaboration with BET Architects, this project would house a public branch of the financial establishment on the ground floor, providing easy access for pedestrians approaching from the sidewalk or the landscaped plaza. Fountains and trees would lure passers-by beneath a sheltering gold-clad mass that features an enormous circular skylight and a rooftop garden. Shopping would be located at street level of the Addis Ababa United Bank and only employees would be able to look out from the impressive diamond-shaped windows that cover the high-rise.
Trend Themes
1. Scaly Architectural Facades - Architectural firms can experiment with scale-like facades to create visually striking and unique buildings.
2. Public Financial Establishments - Financial institutions can increase their accessibility and visibility by considering public branches within high-traffic areas like plazas and public parks.
3. Mixed-use High-rises - Designers can incorporate mixed-use spaces like shopping areas and rooftop gardens to create more dynamic high-rise structures.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture and Design - Architectural firms can implement innovative and visually compelling facades and building designs to stand out in the crowded construction industry.
2. Banking and Finance - Financial institutions can increase their reach and accessibility by considering public branches and experimenting with unique building designs that cater to their customers.
3. Real Estate and Property Development - Developers can create more desirable properties by incorporating mixed-use spaces and unique architectural designs that cater to the modern and diverse needs of tenants.
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