Head Office for the State Bank, Hyderabad

The project aims to provide a conducive work environment to the Employees, clients and visitors to Head Office of the State Bank of Hyderabad.

The environment was to be pleasant, to boost creativity, productivity and well being of the users. All spaces were to be adequately day lit and to have adequate ventilation, creating a stimulating work environment in terms of indoor and outdoor spaces, with visual connectivity between them. All outdoor spaces, including major circulation spaces, were to be shaded and to act as linkages between different zones of the Bank.

The built environment and visual image of the buildings had to convey an appropriate image of the Bank and portray its values. Robust finishing in granite stone cladding on the facades portrays solidity and dependability; openness in the built form makes the building inviting, and enclosed courtyards give a feeling of belonging in a space.

The proposed building materials were to be as far as possible of local origin, and the vocabulary of architecture modern and minimalistic. The proposed image addresses important issues of social, cultural and sustainability concern. This also helps the emerging architecture fit harmoniously with the natural environment of Hyderabad. The unsustainable and dreary image of a typical corporate sector building, using excessive metal and glass, was not considered.

Bold architectural features such as a large podium for internal circulation and the segregation of vehicular and pedestrian movement carry the intent. The podium also forms the main structuring element for the project, bringing together synergetic and stimulating activities, so that undesirable activities such as parking, vehicular movement and services are segregated. The spirit of bold innovation is reflected in the master planning of the project and manifests in the structural design, interiors and details.