The unique headquarters for this bank originated from the owner’s desire to create a superior workplace environment for employees, and the idea of a building which “sits lightly on the land.” The resulting design disturbs as little earth as possible, integrating native features of the coastal landscape and capturing views to nature from every office while preserving the site’s longleaf pines and live oaks. The building is anchored by a central lounge with a double-height window wall overlooking the central courtyard.

Two-story office wings radiate to the east, with interior glass walls that allow for transparency and fabulous views from any point within the building. Because natural light and views for every employee were critical goals, the office wings are long and slender, with interior glass walls for transparency throughout the building. The distinction between inside and outside is further softened by shaded terraces,  active walkways and decks through the courtyard, a second-floor balcony,  and a cyprus exterior which will gently weather over time and further integrate the building into its site. A 50-seat tiered digital conference room provides a venue for teleconferencing with satellite offices as well as employee seminars and meetings. A fitness center, exterior deck, and on-site dog park round out the list of employee amenities.

The interiors for this unique bank headquarters building capture serene views and natural light for every employee workspace. The long, slender office wings feature interior glass walls to maximize transparency throughout the building, blurring the distinction between indoor and outdoor spaces. Warm wood accents and open workstations create a welcoming, collaborative environment. The heart of the building features a central employee lounge with a double-height window wall overlooking the central courtyard, and the longleaf pines and live oak trees beyond.

RECOGNITIONS: WoodWorks Wood Design 2015 Jury’s Choice Award; AIA Wilmington Design Excellence Award; IIDA Carolinas DesignWorks Corporate Award; Lower Cape Fear Stewardship Development Outstanding Stewardship Award; Tree Awards, Preservation and Landscape Design; American Architecture Prize