Space for communication: PALMBERG’s redesign for a modern work environment

This interior design success story begins with a bang: in an attempt to blow up three ATMs at the VR Bank in Rothenburg, unknown perpetrators nearly destroyed the entire branch. Despite the immense scale of the disaster, the forced fresh start was recognised as an opportunity to shape the future. Just a few weeks later, the concept for redesigning the space was finalised. Instead of simply rebuilding, the focus lay on creating a modern work environment.

For the implementation of the restructuring designed by the architectural firm HARTMANN plan werk, PALMBERG provided the perfect solutions to create a pleasant working atmosphere with a modern layout. As a specialist for customisable office furniture, the company from northern Germany offers a wide range of products that simplify collaboration and transform offices into spaces of well-being – with a unique design, top-quality and a variety of functions.

During the bank’s ongoing emergency operation, each room was carefully considered to explore ways to improve the communication culture through enhanced communication channels. Firstly, the individual offices were converted into team offices. The fact that concentrated work is still possible here is primarily due to the sound-insulating elements from the Terio Plus series by PALMBERG, which are used in various areas. This effectively eliminates noise, one of the main stress factors in the workplace.

The various modules, which are available as partitions, wall and ceiling absorbers or table tops, offer a great deal of design flexibility. With the wide selection of colours, fabrics and accessories, the architects had plenty of freedom to either integrate the noise protection subtly or use the modules to make a statement. In the reception area of the VR Bank, discreet Terio Plus ceiling absorbers ensure a pleasantly quiet atmosphere even when there is a high volume of customers. The visual effect of the open space design, aimed at fostering transparency and dialogue, is maintained despite the presence of these sound-insulating objects.

In the offices, the modern team concept is supported by desks from PALMBERG’s CREW series. Despite being set up as double workstations, CREW allows employees to tailor their individual preferences. Each desk can be adjusted to the desired height independently of the person sitting opposite. The Terio Plus absorbers attached to the desks remain reliably stable. This also shows that Terio Plus has other qualities in addition to its acoustic benefits: The elegant partitions not only reduce the noise level, but also minimise visual distractions by serving as privacy screens.

In order to create sufficient storage space, the planners at the VR Bank opted for the multifunctional PRISMA 2 office cabinets from PALMBERG. The surfaces of the cabinet elements were customised to the respective colour concepts of the rooms. PRISMA 2 offers numerous colour options, decor variants, handle shapes and different heights and widths, creating a wide range of possible combinations – ensuring organisation in all dimensions.

Flexibility was at the top priority when planning the conference rooms. Not every meeting is a sitting marathon, but meetings while standing are an advantage for collaborative project work. This led to the choice of BANDO: Depending on the agenda, the height of the tables in the series can be electrically adjusted – either planned in advance or on the spur of the moment. In addition, models from the NOMAR range bring the VR Bank team together for small group gatherings.

The reception area in the VR Bank relies on the KIT standing tables as a bridge to the customers. KIT by PALMBERG can be used either as a free-standing or wall-mounted element. Electrifiable in all versions, these standing tables are ideal for small presentations and media-supported consultations. At the same time, the elegantly designed table elements help structure the space and, depending on the colour and surface, can act as an eye-catcher or blend subtly into the existing interior.

The entire project had to be realised in record time in order to be able to offer customers the usual banking service as quickly as possible. The main branch of the VR Bank in Rothenburg is the most visited location in the entire business area. Thanks to state-of-the-art manufacturing technology, reliable quality and close collaboration with the planners, PALMBERG was able to master the challenge. The project was successfully completed after just seven weeks.

Overcoming challenges is part of the 100-year history of the company, which is now recognised as one of the most successful office furniture manufacturers in Europe. Traditional values, manufacturing ‘Made in Germany’ and high-quality technologies form the foundation for this. To ensure that this continues in the future, PALMBERG is committed to sustainability and environmental awareness – all major product lines have been awarded the European LEVEL 3 sustainability certificate.

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