After recent corporate expansions, Avidia Bank sought to break into a new market region in Framingham, Massachusetts.   Their goals, after acquisition of a narrow deep parcel directly off of Interstate-90, looked to maximize their brand presence and boldly place themselves in a new market.  The first stage of this “Hub and Spoke” marketing strategy, where other new branches can be opened, generated by this first location in the region; is to invest and capitalize on an impactful signature structure and establish a clear brand identity.

The new two story structure is designed around a double height atrium.  The bank branch on its first level is visually connected to a second story of loan production offices. The shared relationship with the atrium, affords the opportunity for all spaces to access natural light, views and a collaborative connectivity between uses.   A simple palette of metal panel, brick and glazing, utilizes transparency, height and proportion to project the bank’s brand, and showcase their presence.

Careful study of solar sun paths, day and night lighting temperatures, glare, and heat gain, maximize transparency both during the day and at night time. This is accomplished while mitigating energy loss and maximizing function and the positive impacts of natural light on the retail environment.

At night, a two story “mural wall” is composed of program spaces, views into adjoining areas and giant branding, serving as the backdrop to the atrium and forming a landmark off of the interstate.

Material Used :

1. Kawneer – Curtain Wall - 1600 Wall System 1 Curtain Wall
2. Centria – Exterior Panels - Formwall Dimension Series Insulated Metal Panels
3. Centria – Custom Column Cover – Series 1000
4. Alucoil – Exterior Panels – Larson Aluminum Composite Panels
5. Beacon – Roofing – Tapered Roof Panels
6. Elwood Reclaimed Timber – Interior Wood Paneling