Introduction
In 1917 the Bank of China established its presence in Hong Kong with just 10 employees. Today, it is recognised as a mainstream banking group with more than 10,700 domestic branches in 55 countries across the world.
The Brief
As tenants relocated from their offices at Gresham Street, the Bank of China took the opportunity to develop and refurbish the 3rd floor 9000 sq. Ft space.
The landlord’s aim was to create a dedicated university style training facility for their internationally recruited employees and coach them as the next generation of technically competent leaders and successors.
The Vision
To deliver a training centre complete with e-leaning facilities, a high-tech auditorium, classrooms, a meet and greet reception area, and a trading floor.
The Design
Black Elephant worked closely with the client to determine how the space might be configured to flexibly accommodate the likely group sizes and various presentation scenarios. A major consideration was the likely volume of students attending at any one time, so accessibility and distinct spatial configuration were key considerations in managing the flow of people around the space. The client was incredibly happy with the layout that has enabled an efficient adult learning experience through the provision of classrooms of varying sizes and training rooms that can accommodate lecture-style forums.
The client’s aim was to create a state-of-the-art learning environment for its international students. Construction and soundproofing specified were crucial in managing the acoustic performance of each room which were fitted with high-tech audio-visual equipment and computer workstations.
The strategic positioning of tea points was a key requirement in creating communal break out spaces for student collaboration. A simple palette of black, white, and orange used throughout this ‘centre of excellence’ reflects the client’s traditional style, culture, and brand.
Mae Teh of Black Elephant was directly appointed by the client to act as their principal designer and space planner whereby she effectively coordinated the preparation of pre-construction information up to the tendering process.
