Nature inside

Finance and design meet in terms of ethics in the new offices of Triodos Bank at Driebergen-Zeist, Holland. Principles of circular economy applied to building in a choral effort

The bond with nature is intimate and deep, for the new headquarters of Triodos Bank in Holland. Not only because it is inserted in the vast estate of Reehorst at Driebergen-Zeist, but also because it ‘breathes’ in a state of symbiosis. The sustainable architecture is the result of teamwork conducted by RAU Architekten and the interior architects of Ex Interiors, in close collaboration with Gispen, in charge of the project, and a group of staffers of the bank itself.

Triodos Bank
Triodos Bank
Ex Interiors
previous arrow
next arrow
 

A “wooden cathedral” created for communication and encounters, made in keeping with the principles of the circular economy applied to construction, not only by using recycled materials but also by making optimal use of available resources, for extraordinary energy efficiency and a particular focus on air quality, natural light and acoustic comfort, generated by the use of sound-absorbing raw canvas.

The large façade glazings create open, luminous spaces that blend with the landscape, bringing nature inside the building and creating an inviting oasis in which to meet with collaborators, clients and visitors.

Ex Interiors
Ex Interiors
Ex Interiors
Ex Interiors
Ex Interiors
Triodos Bank
Triodos Bank
Triodos Bank
previous arrow
next arrow
 

An exclusive, unique working facility, where furnishings also have a part to play. In line with the strategic selection of materials, the offices and shared spaces have been furnished with over 100 classic Thonet chairs in steel tubing and curved wood, with a natural stained finish and woven rattan. Items include the iconic cantilevered S 64 V chair by Marcel Breuer, with its evolution as the swivel S 64 Atelier chair, for 54 units.

In the cafeteria zone there are 76 units of the famous 218 chair in curved wood, based on a project of Gebrüder Thonet from 1876, in the company of the 404 H modern bar stools designed by Stefan Diez. Specifically chosen by Odette Ex (Ex Interiors) for their durability, high quality and modern, elegant style, the Thonet furnishings include new models and restored items from the company’s old offices. Their linear, essential style permits versatile use, an added value for any modern office.

Photo Credit: © Alexander van Berge