A new corporate headquarter building has resulted from the merger of two banks. The 39-storey iconic landmark has pedestrian access from all sides through a public plaza at podium level. Diagonal bracing of the facade, tapered top and staggered structural form are inspired by the ‘heliconia caribaea’ tropical plant. The layered effect of the curtain wall resembles the horn-like petals of the flower. Office floors are divided into three equal sections by two solid cores. These provide visual contrast with the transparent curtain wall system. Sustainable features include artificial intelligence minimising lift waiting, sustainable energy use and high-performance glass.
Source: Aga Khan Trust for Culture