Overall concept Südtiroler Sparkasse, Merano - Part 1
Südtiroler Sparkasse AG is the first bank in South Tyrol to be represented in north-east Italy and in Munich. The traditional bank with more than 200,000 private customers and 25,000 corporate customers still aims to offer its customers continuous added value 165 years after it was founded.
The South Tyrolean design and shopfitting company Schweitzer has developed a unique overall concept for the historic Sparkasse building in the centre of Merano, combining banking, retail and services under one roof.
The most important objective of the concept for the bank was to give it more visibility. This was achieved by moving the premises from the ground floor to the first and second floors. In order to achieve a lasting visual effect, an escalator in the characteristic red colour of the Südtiroler Sparkasse was installed. This is strategically positioned so that the entrance area on the ground floor catches the eye and makes the bank more visible.
This approach makes it possible to utilise the ground floor in a different way and to incorporate retail and hospitality services. The ground floor thus becomes an open space and part of both the architecture and the Sparkasse square in front of the building.
The new premises of the Südtiroler Sparkasse also offer space for innovation: existing customers and interested parties can discover, experience and try out services and products. In addition to the traditional office and consultation areas, rooms with space for interchange and sharing knowledge digitally have been integrated to create an ambience that facilitates interpersonal interaction.
Concrete combined with light-coloured wood creates an inviting atmosphere, while soft, sound-absorbing materials provide comfort. Architectural elements, such as themed walls and a sculptural staircase between the floors made of light fittings and wood, help with navigation and perception of the space.
The opening of the Südtiroler Sparkasse premises on May 21st, 2024 heralds the final chapter before the completion of one of Merano's most important buildings. The opening of the retail areas is scheduled to open at the end of 2024.
