Open, transparent – and based on trust: with its new branch in Singen, Sparkasse Hegau-Bodensee is setting new standards for the banking of tomorrow and demonstrating how banks can create exceptional customer experiences whilst also becoming attractive places to work. Across approximately 490 square metres, a space has been created that combines advisory services, a pleasant atmosphere and modern working practices within a holistic concept.
“From the very beginning, our aim was to create a branch that equally combines advice, a pleasant atmosphere and clear wayfinding. To achieve this, we needed a partner who not only designs spaces but also thinks holistically about usage concepts and implements our ideas precisely. KNOBLAUCH won us over with this approach – particularly through its ability to translate our requirements for modern advisory services, flexible spaces and clear customer guidance into a coherent overall design,” explains Jens Heinert, Chairman of the Board of Sparkasse Hegau-Bodensee.
Anyone standing outside the branch in Singen’s Nordstadt district immediately senses that this bank is different. The façade is open, allowing passers-by to catch a glimpse of what’s going on inside. It has the character of a shop window, something more commonly associated with retail outlets than with banks. At the same time, the inviting entrance area with its canopy creates a connection between inside and outside through a continuous wooden ceiling. Transparency? Absolutely! The principle here is: what happens inside is clearly visible from the outside.
– Anja Gillies, Management interdisciplinary design
Well-Being means designing spaces in such a way that they actively promote people’s physical, mental and emotional well-being, rather than being merely functional. We believe this is particularly important wherever people work.
“The demands placed on modern workplaces have evolved significantly in recent years, particularly in the financial sector. For us, it is clear: committed and qualified employees are the key to a successful future.” Jens Heinert, Chairman of the Board, Sparkasse Hegau-Bodensee
Sparkasse Hegau-Bodensee recognised this long ago and is investing specifically in a working environment that is not only functional but also inspires, encourages interaction and provides space for concentrated work. After all, only those who feel comfortable can make the most of their strengths. “That is exactly what defines the branch of the future for us,” says Heinert.
In the flex zone, i.e. in the centre of the branch, there are ten open-plan workstations for the advisors, which are visible from the outside yet acoustically shielded. The well-being of the staff plays a key role here. Various acoustic screens allow for undisturbed work, whilst at the same time the advisors can immediately see when one of their customers enters the room.
In addition, this zone features a special lighting concept designed with well-being in mind: linear ceiling lights are combined with table lamps that adjust their light colour in line with daylight, thereby supporting the circadian rhythm to enhance well-being.
Overall, the architectural and design language draws inspiration from the rugged natural landscape of the Hegau-Lake Constance region: we have softened the spatial structure using an organic design language, inspired by the contours of a river landscape. The furniture also features organic shapes. “Our branch is deliberately more than just a place for banking – it is a piece of home. This creates an environment that fosters a sense of closeness and demonstrates what we stand for as a savings bank: for the people and the region where we are at home,” reports Chairman of the Board Heinert.
The colour and material scheme reflects the region’s identity and the Sparkasse’s deep-rooted connection to the local area. Stone-effect tiles are used throughout, evoking the basalt of the volcanic mountains. Recycled bricks, made from construction waste. Furniture crafted from ash, a local timber. Natural shades of green and red dominate. “The Sparkasse CI red is used as an accent colour in appropriate places,” says Anja. The use of plants, for example in the advisors’ workspace, emphasises the connection to nature.
The service counter is a real eye-catcher and pays homage to the Hohentwiel ruins in Hegau. The ruins are hinted at on the back wall through specially arranged, recycled bricks.
At the back of the branch, there are six consultation rooms, each dedicated to a specific regional theme – accompanied by a matching lighting concept. What they all have in common is that they create a welcoming atmosphere for confidential consultations. In addition, each room features two photographs by Lothar Adamczyk depicting scenes from the region. The themes of the rooms are:
With this innovative branch concept, Sparkasse Hegau-Bodensee impressively demonstrates how banks can evolve into open, experience-oriented spaces – for customers as well as for staff.
