Bank Zimmerberg Offices – Horgen

Mint Architecture AG transformed Bank Zimmerberg’s new headquarters in Horgen with sculptural cubes, creating distinct zones, privacy, and a harmonious mix of traditional and innovative design elements.

Firm
  • Client Bank Zimmerberg,
  • size 8,611 sqft
  • Year 2020
  • Location Horgen, Switzerland,
  • Industry Financial / Investments,
  • Bank Zimmerberg is deeply rooted in its region. With the move from the village center to an 800 m² industrial hall with a lake view, Mint Architecture has created an inspiring new location for both clients and employees. Using sculptural cubes, the architectural firm successfully structures the space, creating a distinctive atmosphere and thus an independent identity.

    With strong characteristics
    A single-story industrial hall with a lake view and diverse spatial requirements defined the competition to which Bank Zimmerberg invited architects for the development and design of its new headquarters in Horgen, Zurich. This new location was intended to be an inspiring place for work, meetings, and interactions for up to 50 employees and the bank’s clients. The responsible of Bank Zimmerberg saw no possibility of dividing the hall with a mezzanine to gain space for the different uses. They were instead enthusiastic about Mint Architecture’s proposal to organize the space with a design that separates the hall into private and public zones, and to create a second level using three sculptural cubes.

    Sculptural Design Language
    While sculptures are typically created to be viewed, the three two-story cubes at Bank Zimmerberg serve functional purposes. They interact with their surroundings and structure the open space. Their enclosed rooms provide the necessary privacy for client consultations, meetings, and confidential discussions. The cubes shape the spatial experience and the customer journey, with visitors and employees moving through smaller, open units while still perceiving the spaciousness of the hall and the view of the lake. The cubes, made from aluminum composite materials, define the design of the space and integrate Ecopanels for sound insulation.

    Connecting Tradition and Innovation
    Bank Zimmerberg has been closely tied to its home region of Horgen for over two hundred years. This deep connection has led to strong growth of the bank in recent years. Mint Architecture translates the bank’s values and identity into a design that combines traditional materials with innovative forms. Instead of angular edges, the aluminum and glass of the cubes are rounded and discreetly branded with an engraved “Z.” All the hall’s piping is still visible, but painted white, creating a striking contrast to the wooden and glass furnishings. High-pile carpets in the upper meeting rooms, floor-length curtains which also serve as sound insulation, and a harmonious color scheme emphasize the character of the space, providing a sense of security and atmosphere.

    Design: Mint Architecture AG
    Photography: Oliver Rust