Banking – completely reimagined: That’s exactly what lies at the heart of the new branch concept for OLB in Bremen. The Oldenburgische Landesbank AG demonstrates how to make physical banking locations truly attractive for customers – and how an established financial institution can still surprise.
The banking sector is changing, and OLB Bank is also questioning the future orientation of its locations. To create suitable offers for its customers, the bank is relying on a multi-channel strategy.
Good Service Begins with Good Spaces
The Oldenburgische Landesbank AG (OLB) understands the role that physical spaces play in customer satisfaction. With its new branch concept, the bank is investing in a future-oriented format that combines modern banking with customer focus, design excellence, and digital integration. The new branch identity and spatial concept were developed by Berlin-based brand and experience architecture agency dan pearlman.
Grand Reopening at a Historic Location
On Thursday, June 12, 2025, OLB celebrated the grand opening of its newly redesigned branch in the historic Bankhaus Neelmeyer in Bremen – a location that has been part of OLB’s story for over 100 years. Following an extensive renovation led by the Gustav Zech Foundation, the branch now shines in a bright, open, and contemporary design. Clear lines, light-flooded spaces, and modern furnishings replace dark wood paneling and outdated teller counters. The new space is designed for openness, interaction, and forward-thinking financial consultation.
Rethinking Banking: Rebranding and Spatial Concept from a Single Source
As part of a comprehensive rebranding strategy, OLB is rolling out a consistent new branch concept in its signature corporate green. The design was created by dan pearlman, who already implemented the new look at the Nordenham location. Bremen is now the second branch to be unveiled in this new identity – with Rastede and Vechta next in line.
“OLB demonstrates what modern banking looks like: customer-centric, digitally connected, and design-driven. This new branch format is a bold statement for the future of banking,”
says Volker Katschinski, Creative Director and Founder of dan pearlman. “The brand promise ‘smart beraten’ (smart consulting) becomes a tangible spatial experience – both in person and through digital touchpoints.”
Customer Focus at the Core
The new spatial design was developed based on customer feedback and real usage patterns. The focus lies on personal consultation, efficient self-service areas, and a pleasant atmosphere. The Bremen branch combines all elements of modern banking – from everyday transactions to high-end financial advising. And thanks to its location at the historic marketplace, clients enjoy views of UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Bremen Town Hall and the Roland statue – a symbolic intersection of tradition and innovation.
More Than Design – A Cultural Statement
With around 50 employees and over 10,000 clients in and around Bremen, this flagship branch is a clear commitment to regional presence and long-term investment. At the opening ceremony, OLB CEO Stefan Barth emphasized the strategic importance of the site:
“Reopening this branch at such a prominent location reflects our strong commitment to Bremen. It embodies our strategy to expand and grow sustainably, while delivering excellent service.”
Spaces That Inspire Collaboration
The redesigned branch not only improves the client experience but also supports internal communication and teamwork. Open layouts, warm colors, and thoughtfully planned work areas enhance collaboration and contribute to a vibrant, future-ready work environment.
Pictures: Tobias Trapp
