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.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Scaly Architectural Facades
- Architectural firms can experiment with scale-like facades to create visually striking and unique buildings.
- Public Financial Establishments
- Financial institutions can increase their accessibility and visibility by considering public branches within high-traffic areas like plazas and public parks.
- Mixed-use High-rises
- Designers can incorporate mixed-use spaces like shopping areas and rooftop gardens to create more dynamic high-rise structures.
Where This Applies
- Architecture and Design
- Architectural firms can implement innovative and visually compelling facades and building designs to stand out in the crowded construction industry.
- 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.
- 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.
