Branch Höngg

For the design of the new Zurich branch, Raiffeisenbank announced an architectural competition. MACH was shortlisted with their concept based on the heritage of local wine production.

The new Raiffeisen branch is located in the traditional wine region of Höngg in the city of Zurich. Inspired by this heritage and the belief that good banks make customers' money grow, MACH designed an indoor-outdoor concept in which the interior of the branch opens onto a courtyard planted with vines and furnished with benches where customers can admire nature's growth. Inside, the central banking area has been given a warm, human touch with tactile elements: furniture in matte oak, friendly white cement floors and handmade wall elements with wine motifs. The result is an approachable bench where customers are able to talk about money while maintaining a personal relationship.

Grapes played an important role in the design proposals. This particular fruit reminded MACH of the balls of traditional counting machines, hence the project name 'Abacus'.