How do you wrap up traditional values in a modern form? With its innovative branch concept, Commerzbank takes a pioneering role among retail banking in Germany, placing the focus on customer needs. “Rethinking banking” - was the idea and inspiration for the Commerzbank branch design.
“Rethinking banking” – under this guiding principle, Commerzbank developed an innovative branch concept that unites form, color, and material into a cohesive spatial experience. The new branch architecture brings the brand claim “The bank at your side” to life through a spatial concept that combines customer proximity, service, and design. The goal was to create pilot branches that foster interaction between customers and staff while delivering a modern brand experience.
Light, Color, and Atmosphere in Harmony
The branch interiors are spacious and feature bright tones such as white and grey. A striking illuminated Commerzbank logo serves as a central visual highlight. The design concept blends a welcoming atmosphere with clear architectural lines and modern technology. At the heart of each branch is a lounge area, designed as a communicative hub that bridges the gap between in-person services and a wide range of digital offerings.
Communicative Center: The Lounge
The lounge, as the centerpiece of the new branch design, offers infotainment on tablets, a news wall, and a beverage station. It serves as a place of calm and, at the same time, a space for encounters. This central area creates a pleasant stay and strengthens the emotional connection to the brand.
Design Highlights and Brand Staging
The design is characterized by strong contrasts and distinctive elements. Dynamic lighting bands on the ceiling, mirrored carpet strips on the floor, wooden frames, and a yellow light strip create a clear visual structure. Commerzbank’s corporate color yellow and brand symbol are deliberately emphasized, giving the space a strong sense of identity.
Awards for Design and Brand Strategy
The branch concept has received multiple awards:
In 2014, it was honored with the “Gute Gestaltung” (Good Design) award by the German Designer Club,
In 2015, it won the Iconic Award,
In 2016, it received the German Brand Award in the category “Excellence in Brand Strategy, Management and Creation – Brand Showrooms & Point of Sales”,
In 2018, the concept was awarded the POPAI D-A-CH Award in the category “Visual Merchandising, Retail Design, Shopfitting, Shop-in-Shop Systems, Flagship Stores”.
Innovative Branch Design as a Model for the Future
With this new branch concept, Commerzbank sets a strong example for the future of retail banking: as a place for interaction, consultation, and brand experience – open, modern, and customer-centric.
