Your site analysis is well-structured and covers essential aspects of planning for a development
in Kombolcha, Ethiopia. Below, I will expand on each point with additional considerations and
actionable insights that could further enhance your project planning.
Site Analysis
1. Topography:
– Terracing: Consider not only stepped designs for buildings but also terraced landscaping to
prevent soil erosion and manage water runoff effectively. This can create visually appealing
outdoor spaces.
– Drainage Solutions: Implement a comprehensive stormwater management plan that
includes swales, retention ponds, or bioswales to direct water away from buildings and prevent
flooding.
2. Sun Orientation:
– Passive Solar Design: Integrate passive solar design principles by placing larger windows on
the north side (if applicable) to capture sunlight in colder months while minimizing openings on
the south side to reduce heat gain in the summer.
– Material Selection: Use reflective roofing materials and lighter-colored exterior finishes to
help keep buildings cooler. Consider incorporating thermal mass materials like concrete or stone
in strategic locations to absorb heat during the day and release it at night.
3. Access and Circulation:
– Pedestrian Safety: Design raised crosswalks or traffic calming measures (like speed bumps)
along the access road to enhance pedestrian safety. Clearly marked pathways and signage can
guide foot traffic effectively.
– Multi-modal Transportation: If feasible, consider integrating bicycle lanes or facilities to
encourage alternative transportation methods, reducing congestion on the road.
4. Commercial Activity:
– Mixed-Use Development: Plan for flexible spaces that can adapt over time to changing
commercial needs. Incorporating residential units above retail spaces can create a vibrant
community atmosphere.
– Public Spaces: Design outdoor plazas or community gathering spots with seating, greenery,
and possibly small markets or food stalls to foster social interaction and enhance the overall
experience for visitors.
5. Environmental Considerations:
– Flood Mitigation: Research historical flood data to inform design decisions. Elevating
buildings above the floodplain and using flood-resistant materials can mitigate risks.
– Sustainable Landscaping: Utilize native plants in landscaping to reduce water usage and
maintenance needs. Rain gardens can be designed to capture runoff and support local wildlife.
6. Zoning Regulations:
– Engagement with Local Authorities: Early engagement with local zoning boards and planning
commissions can clarify regulations and streamline the approval process. Understanding
community goals can also guide design decisions.
– Future Growth Considerations: Anticipate potential changes in zoning laws or community
needs over time. Designing flexible spaces that can accommodate changes will be beneficial in
the lon
1. Building Orientation:
– Position buildings to maximize natural ventilation and minimize direct sun exposure during
peak hours.
2. Materials:
– Use local materials that are suited for the climate and can withstand potential weather
challenges.
3. Landscaping:
– Create green buffers along the road and around the property to enhance aesthetics and
provide noise reduction from traffic.
4. Community Engagement:
– Engage with local stakeholders and community members to understand their needs and
preferences for the development.
5. Sustainability:
– Consider incorporating renewable energy sources such as solar panels, especially given the
sun exposure of the site.
Introduction
The proposed development is a G+8 headquarters mixed-use office building for Wegagen Bank. The
project integrates commercial spaces, a fully equipped branch office, and dedicated administrative and
functional offices to support the bank’s headquarters operations.
Designed with careful attention to aesthetic quality, functional efficiency, and environmental
responsibility, the building adopts a modernist architectural approach. Sustainable design principles are
embedded throughout the project, including the integration of green features within the site landscape
and the incorporation of environmentally responsive façade systems along the building elevations.
These elements work collectively to enhance performance, reduce environmental impact, and reinforce
the bank’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.
The site located in kombolcha city Amhara region Ethiopia. it is well-structured and covers
essential aspects of planning for a development in city. The site has the area of 1076.81sqm.
The site is located directly in front of a 20-meter-wide asphalt road, providing strong
accessibility and visibility. It features a stepped slope with an elevation difference of up to 4
meters, which significantly influences the building’s design approach, structural considerations,
and foundation requirements.
The existing development on the site consists of a ground-plus-one building currently used as
an office for Wegagen Bank. The ground floor functions as the main office, and because of
the site’s pronounced slope, this level sits partially below grade, giving it the character of a
semi-basement. The upper floor is currently vacant.
The site itself has a stepped topography. Access to the rear of the property is from the left
side, following a stepped slope with an approximate 4-meter elevation rise. Upon reaching the
top, the terrain becomes relatively level, aligning with the floor level of the building’s upper story
Facing south, the site is exposed to intense afternoon sunlight, making it essential to employ
architectural strategies that minimize heat gain and enhance occupant comfort.
Situated within one of the most active commercial zones of the city, the area experiences
high levels of both pedestrian and vehicular movement, which further emphasizes the
importance of thoughtful circulation planning and urban integration.
On the northern edge of the site runs a river flowing from east to west. While this natural
feature presents a potential flood risk, it also offers valuable opportunities. With proper
drainage design and landscape management, the river can become a significant environmental
and visual asset for the development.
The existing development on the site consists of a ground-plus-one building currently used as
an office for Wegagen Bank. The ground floor functions as the main office, and because of
the site’s pronounced slope, this level sits partially below grade, giving it the character of a
semi-basement. The upper floor is currently vacant.
The site itself has a stepped topography. Access to the rear of the property is from the left
side, following a stepped slope with an approximate 4-meter elevation rise. Upon reaching the
top, the terrain becomes relatively level, aligning with the floor level of the building’s upper story
The nearby river may pose flood risks; ensure proper drainage systems are in place and consider
flood-resistant design strategies.
Site Analysis
1. Topography:
– The stepped slope of up to 4 meters can influence building design and foundation
requirements. Consider terracing or stepped designs to accommodate the slope.
– Drainage will be crucial to manage water runoff, especially given the proximity to the river.
2. Sun Orientation:
– Since the site faces south and experiences harsh afternoon sun, consider incorporating
shading elements such as overhangs, awnings, or pergolas to reduce heat gain.
– Utilize materials that can reflect sunlight or have high thermal mass to help regulate indoor
temperatures.
3. Access and Circulation:
– The proximity to a 20m asphalt road suggests good vehicular access, but consider how to
manage pedestrian flow safely given the congested activity in the area.
– Design pathways that encourage pedestrian movement while ensuring safety from vehicular
traffic.
4. Commercial Activity:
– Given the high commercial activity, think about mixed-use development that can cater to
both retail and residential needs.
– Outdoor spaces could be incorporated to enhance the pedestrian experience and attract
foot traffic.
5. Environmental Considerations:
– The nearby river may pose flood risks; ensure proper drainage systems are in place and
consider flood-resistant design strategies.
– Incorporate green spaces or rain gardens to manage stormwater and enhance biodiversity.
Creating form
As mentioned on the site description, the site has a stepped sloped feature which reaches upto
approximately around 4 meters high. So instead of excavating the whole land and also dig a
basement area deep under ground, we merge ground floor and the parking area make them on
the same level but with different floor height to create natural light and ventilation for some
spaces. This is also benefits the clients save money from underground basement construction
fees. The parking area’s terrace can also be used as a recreational spaces (open air experience
and also view from the river on the north) and also can be used as an additional storage area.
As described in the site analysis, the property features a stepped slope with an elevation
difference of approximately 4 meters. Instead of fully excavating the terrain and constructing a
deep underground basement, the design strategically aligns the ground floor and the parking
level on the same general plane, while maintaining different floor heights to introduce natural
light and ventilation into selected interior spaces.
This approach significantly reduces the costs associated with deep basement excavation and
construction, offering a more efficient and economical solution for the client.
Additionally, the parking level terrace is designed as a multifunctional space. It can serve as an
open-air recreational area, taking advantage of the northern river views, and can also function
as an auxiliary storage area, adding further value and flexibility to the design.
Creating arcade
Because the site faces southern direction facing the afternoon harsh sun. we created an arcade
for the purpose of sunlight protection techniques on the lower floors (ground and first floor).
This arcade also used as a circulatory area before entering the building.
Because the site faces south and is exposed to the harsh afternoon sun, the design incorporates
a protective arcade along the lower levels (ground and first floors). This architectural element
functions as an effective solar-shading strategy, reducing heat gain and improving thermal
comfort within the building.
In addition to its environmental performance, the arcade also serves as a circulation zone—a
transitional, shaded walkway that guides users toward the building entrance while enhancing
the pedestrian experience
Extruding forms
Instead of just laying façade features on a flat elevation form. Play with the building form by
extruding regular shapes on the elevation for aesthetical purpose. And it also creates contrast
on the form.
Rather than applying façade features onto a flat elevation, the design explores the building
massing itself by extruding simple, regular geometric forms along the façade. This approach
enhances the aesthetic quality of the building, creates depth and shadow, and introduces a
dynamic contrast within the overall form, resulting in a visually engaging architectural
expression.
Laying façade
For the purpose of sun breaking and also aesthetical quality of the building. We lay verical
aluminium mullions along the faced.
To enhance both solar control and the aesthetic quality of the building, the design incorporates
vertical aluminum mullions along the façade. These elements function as effective sun-
breakers, reducing direct solar exposure while contributing to a refined and contemporary
architectural expression.
Adding green features
By adding green features along the façade we can achieve aesthetic quality, cooling the interior
spaces and also it makes the building more connected with nature.
By integrating green features along the façade, the design enhances the building’s aesthetic
quality, improves thermal comfort by naturally cooling interior spaces, and strengthens the
overall sense of connection with nature. These planted elements contribute to a more
sustainable, visually appealing, and environmentally responsive architectural identity.
Introduction
The project is a headquarter mixed office building for wegagen bank. It incorporates commercial
spaces, branch office and functional offices for wegagen bank head quarter. The mixed use
office building is a ground plus eight height. Which it is designed to answer aesthetical, fuctional
and environmental aspects, the design follows a modernistic design approach with integrating
green features not only on the site but also as a façade system along the building elevation.
By extruding a volume from the façade. We break the towering effect of the elevation. This
intervention also establishes a sense of hierarchy in that specific portion of the building. In our
design, we locate the director’s office around this feature so it naturally conveys a sense of
distinction and importance.
Function: The café, branch office, and parking area make the public space on the ground floor
more active, while the rental offices and retail shops on the first and second floors further
contribute to the building’s vibrancy.
Natural light and ventilation: operable windows cross ventilation through the open corridors on
every floors.
Privacy: The lower part of the building accommodates active public areas, whereas the
supporting programs for the headquarters are located on the 3rd to 8th floors. This vertical
arrangement ensures effective segregation and controlled access between functions.
Aesthetic: The building’s eight floors are designed with green features, simple extruded
volumes, soothing color selections, and sun breakers that enhance both aesthetics and
environmental performance.
Cost efficient: By using short-span grids, durable low-maintenance finishes, and on-site solar
combined with efficient MEP systems, the project minimizes initial construction expenses as
well as ongoing operational costs.
1. Space organization
No. Floor plans Area (sqm)
1. Ground Floor plan 835sqm
2. 1st floor plan 469sqm
3. 2nd floor plan 415sqm
4. 3rd floor plan 406.5sqm
5. 4th floor plan 406.5sqm
6. 5th floor plan 406.5sqm
7. 6th floor plan 406.5sqm
8. 7th floor plan 420sqm
9. 8th floor plan 420sqm
10. Terrace 198sqm
Ground floor
As described in the conceptual analysis, the parking area, branch office, café, and other
supporting programs are placed on the same level. The parking zone is accessed through a
corridor on the right side that leads toward the rear of the site. This area accommodates
parking for eight cars along with a guard house, water reservoir, and storage rooms. Instead of
requiring users to circle back after parking, a passageway connects directly to the vertical
circulation core and the remaining ground-floor spaces.
On the main ground-floor level, which contains the restrooms, branch office, and café, the
spatial organization follows a linear layout with a central circulation route. Because the tower
occupies a relatively small footprint and to minimize construction costs, only one staircase is
provided. This stair also functions as a fire-escape through the use of fire-resistant materials and
by enclosing the stairwell.
The spaces positioned at the front benefit from natural light and ventilation. However, the areas
toward the back of the ground floor—such as the restroom, café kitchen, and branch-office
workroom—were initially dependent on artificial lighting and ventilation. After further study,
this issue was addressed by splitting the upper slab and lowering the height of the slab above
the parking area. This adjustment creates a top opening that allows these interior spaces to
receive adequate natural illumination and ventilation.
First and second floor
These upper floors are designed as rental spaces intended to generate income for the company.
Both floors follow a linear spatial organization, with a central corridor that provides natural
ventilation and illumination to the lobby area. All rooms on these floors are naturally lit and
ventilated.
The use of curtain partition walls in each room allows flexibility for future spatial
reconfiguration, enabling developers or tenants to adjust room sizes and qualities as needed.
On the first floor, a doorway leads to the rear portion of the site, opening onto the slab (roof)
that covers the parking area. This rooftop space is utilized as a recreational area, incorporating
greenery and other natural environmental features.
Third floor
This floor serves as a transitional zone between the public rental spaces and the private
headquarters offices. It accommodates semi-private functions such as the main reception area,
which features a grand circulation route and a waiting area that is naturally illuminated and
ventilated. The spaces follow a linear organization, grouping related programs together—for
example, CCTV, the security room, and the IT department; as well as the building
administration, warehouse, and the Facility Management & Follow-up Officers’ Office.
Fourth floor plan
This floor, along with the upper 5th and 6th floors, follows a similar organizational approach,
with slight variations in layout and program. On the 4th floor, a pool office is provided, offering
ample natural light and ventilation. A project room is also included, serving as both a
presentation and meeting space. Toward the back of the building is the manager’s office,
designed to offer a higher level of privacy.
On the opposite side, a training room is provided for employee development, positioned in
direct relation to the Human Resources department. Adjacent to the training room, a dedicated
break room is designed to support comfort and convenience during training sessions.
Fifth and sixth floor
As mentioned earlier, the 4th, 5th, and 6th floors share a similar overall layout. The 5th and 6th
floors, in particular, are nearly identical, incorporating a pool office, project room, and
manager’s office with the same spatial quality and dimensions as those on the 4th floor. On the
right side of both floors, various office departments are arranged and separated using curtain
partitions, allowing for easy future modifications and flexible space reconfiguration.
7th floor
On this floor, the director’s office is positioned with an attached private bathroom. As shown in
the plan, the director’s office can be accessed both from the main corridor and through the
secretary’s office. Within the director’s office, an extended wall from the bathroom creates a
corridor-like effect, enhancing the sense of privacy between the workspace and the bathroom.
Unlike any other office in the building, the director’s office includes a private balcony furnished
with greenery. As outlined in the conceptual analysis, this balcony not only introduces a
pleasant outdoor space but also contributes to breaking the façade rhythm and visually
communicating the hierarchical importance of the space.
Along the back and right side of the floor, a series of supportive offices are arranged linearly.
These rooms are well illuminated and naturally ventilated.
Eighth floor plan
On this floor, the spaces are organized in a radial formation. There are two halls: a meeting hall
with 134 seats and a training room with 48 seats—both exceeding the required capacity. Due to
the limited floor area and the large seating requirements of these halls, the break area is
integrated with the central lobby where it is ventilated and lit naturally.
Terrace
This floor is designed as a multifunctional space that integrates essential building utilities and
recreational functions. It accommodates the main water reservoir and solar panels, contributing
to the building’s sustainable infrastructure, while the remaining open area is accessible for users
to relax, refresh, and enjoy outdoor activities. Finished with textured porcelain tiles, the terrace
offers both durability and a refined aesthetic quality. Its elevated position and carefully
considered material choices enhance the building’s visual presence within the surrounding
context, creating a pleasant rooftop environment that complements the overall architectural
character.
2. style, composition and scale
style
As described in the conceptual analysis, the evolution of the building’s final form and façade is
rooted in principles of modern architectural expression. The design process emphasizes clarity,
simplicity, and a harmonious relationship between interior and exterior environments. One of
the key architectural strategies employed is the use of large glazing surfaces. These expansive
glass panels not only allow abundant natural light to penetrate deep into the interior spaces but
also visually dissolve the boundary between the built space and the surrounding context. This
transparency fosters a sense of openness, enhances spatial fluidity, and supports a more
immersive connection with nature—an essential characteristic of contemporary architecture.
The building adopts clean, non-decorative, and function-driven detailing, consistent with
modernist ideals that prioritize form derived from purpose rather than ornamentation. Lines are
kept crisp, geometries are straightforward, and the material palette remains refined yet
restrained, creating an architectural language that is both elegant and timeless. This simplicity
enhances the clarity of the structure while ensuring a cohesive visual identity across different
elements of the design.
A notable biophilic feature integrated into the façade composition is the vertical garden.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the green façade contributes ecological value by improving air
quality, reducing solar heat gain, and softening the overall appearance of the structure. It
introduces a dynamic layer of living texture to the building envelope, shifting with seasons and
reinforcing the project’s commitment to environmental sensitivity.
Structurally and visually, the façade is further defined by the use of aluminum mullions, a
material choice that aligns with modern architectural ideals of precision, lightness, and
durability. These mullions provide a sleek, linear framework for the glazing while ensuring
structural stability and thermal efficiency. Their metallic finish adds a contemporary character,
complementing the building’s overall minimalist aesthetic.
Together, these design decisions shape a façade that is not only visually coherent and
technically sophisticated but also deeply connected to the conceptual narrative established
from the project’s inception. The result is an architectural expression that balances modernity,
environmental responsiveness, and refined craftsmanship.
Composition
The elevation design employs a deliberate strategy of volumetric extrusion, in which selected
forms are pushed outward from the primary façade plane to create depth, visual interest, and a
dynamic architectural expression. These extruded masses break the monotony of a flat façade,
resulting in a composition that feels more playful, sculptural, and spatially engaging. By
manipulating the building’s geometry in three dimensions, the design achieves a façade that
responds actively to light and shadow, adding richness and variation throughout the day.
A key architectural intention behind these extrusions is the creation of contrast and hierarchy.
Differentiated volumes—varying in depth, scale, and material articulation—guide the viewer’s
eye across the elevation, establishing focal points and emphasizing important architectural
elements such as entrances, balconies, or communal spaces. The interplay of recessed and
projected volumes helps reveal the internal organization of the building while ensuring the
external façade communicates a clear architectural narrative.
The contrast is further strengthened through the thoughtful use of colors, materials, and
textures. By assigning distinct finishes or tones to specific volumes, the façade gains a layered
quality, enhancing its visual rhythm and structural legibility. These moves create a hierarchy
where certain forms assert prominence while others recede, contributing to a balanced yet
dynamic overall composition.
Architecturally, this approach reflects a contemporary design philosophy that values articulated
geometry, expressive massing, and functional aesthetics. The volumetric play does not merely
serve ornamental purposes; it enhances natural lighting, frames views, creates shading
opportunities, and contributes to the building’s environmental performance. Through these
carefully orchestrated formal gestures, the elevation becomes an integrated expression of
identity, function, and architectural intent
Scale
In the development of the elevation concept, a balanced interplay of vertical and horizontal
design elements has been strategically employed to achieve compositional clarity and visual
harmony. The vertical elements serve to accentuate the building’s height, guiding the eye
upward and creating a sense of elegance and slenderness. These may include vertical mullions,
components each contributing to a refined vertical rhythm. In contrast, the horizontal elements
ground the composition, extending the building’s perceived width and reinforcing its stability.
Horizontal elements help break the verticality and create a measured architectural cadence
across the façade.
The deliberate integration of extruded forms further enhances this balance. By projecting
certain volumes outward, the design not only introduces depth and dimensionality but also
carefully mediates the height-to-width ratio of the building. These extrusions work as
architectural counterpoints, preventing the façade from appearing too tall or too compressed.
Instead, they create a proportional equilibrium that aligns the building mass with human scale
and contextual surroundings.
Architecturally, this combination of linear elements and volumetric articulation transforms the
façade into a well-composed, multidimensional surface. The vertical–horizontal interplay
establishes order and rhythm, while the extruded masses introduce dynamic variation, ensuring
the façade remains both visually compelling and functionally expressive. This approach reflects
a contemporary architectural methodology in which proportion, rhythm, and spatial modulation
work together to produce a façade that is coherent, balanced, and contextually responsive.
3. sustainability
The design embodies the core principles of sustainable architecture by integrating
environmental responsiveness, resource efficiency, and long-term resilience into every aspect of
the built form. The building prioritizes passive design strategies, ensuring that all interior spaces
are naturally ventilated and naturally illuminated. Through thoughtful orientation, strategic
window placement, and the incorporation of operable openings, the building promotes
effective cross-ventilation, reducing the need for mechanical cooling systems. This not only
minimizes energy consumption but also enhances indoor environmental quality by maintaining
a steady flow of fresh air. Similarly, maximized daylight penetration reduces dependence on
artificial lighting during daytime hours, while shading devices, overhangs, and appropriate
glazing prevent heat gain and glare, balancing comfort and efficiency.
A robust suite of water conservation methodologies is integrated to address the growing
concerns of water scarcity and sustainable resource management. The design can include
features such as low-flow plumbing fixtures, dual-flush systems, rainwater harvesting, greywater
reuse, and landscape planning that incorporates native or drought-tolerant vegetation. These
measures collectively reduce potable water demand, encourage recycling of water within the
building, and promote responsible stewardship of natural resources.
The building’s waste management system is meticulously planned to ensure hygiene, efficiency,
and reduced environmental impact. Garbage chute ducts are installed on every floor, enabling
seamless waste disposal from all levels of the building. On the ground floor, a dedicated waste
collection and segregation area is provided, helping streamline recycling processes, minimize
contamination, and support the proper handling of organic and recyclable waste. This system
aligns with sustainable waste management principles by encouraging orderly waste flow,
reducing manual handling, and promoting community participation in recycling.
At the roof level, the design incorporates solar photovoltaic panels, contributing to the
building’s energy efficiency and long-term sustainability. By harnessing renewable solar energy,
the building offsets a significant portion of its electricity consumption, reducing reliance on
conventional, carbon-intensive power sources. This shift to clean energy not only lowers
operational costs but also decreases the building’s overall carbon footprint. The integration of
solar technology on the terrace exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to energy management
and aligns with global goals for sustainable development and climate action.
Collectively, these strategies reflect a holistic commitment to sustainable architecture—one that
enhances occupant comfort, reduces environmental impact, and ensures that the building
operates efficiently over its lifetime while remaining harmonious with the natural environment.
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The project incorporates suspended ceilings as a key element of the interior design. Made from
wooden boards and gypsum panels, these ceilings add visual appeal while also providing
functional coverage for electrical systems.
The design includes the provision of garbage chute ducts on every floor to streamline waste
management within the building. These vertical ducts allow occupants to conveniently dispose
of household waste without having to access ground-level collection areas. Each chute is
strategically located for accessibility and is constructed with fire-resistant, durable materials to
ensure safety and hygiene. The system directs waste into a centralized collection room at the
lower level, improving overall cleanliness, reducing odors, and minimizing the need for manual
handling of garbage throughout the building.
As previously mentioned, natural light and ventilation are provided for the ground-floor spaces.
To achieve this, the slab over the ground floor has been strategically split, with the portion
covering the parking area lowered from its original height. This design modification allows
daylight to penetrate deeper into the interior spaces and facilitates better airflow, enhancing
comfort and reducing reliance on artificial lighting and mechanical ventilation systems.
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In alignment with the bank’s brand color palette, orange has been strategically incorporated into
the design. This color is applied to selected interior elements as well as specific exterior
features, serving as a visual highlight. Its purposeful use reinforces brand identity while adding
vibrancy and emphasis to key areas within the overall architectural composition.
6. economy
The design incorporates curtain partition walls, allowing for flexible future modifications of
interior spaces. This approach not only reduces construction time but also proves to be cost-
effective, as partitions can be reconfigured without major structural changes.
The structural layout of the building features a short-span grid of 5.5 m × 5.5 m, with 1.5 m
cantilever slabs in selected areas. This configuration has been carefully chosen to enable simple
and economical column and beam sizing, minimizing material usage while maintaining
structural efficiency. The combination of a modular structural grid and non-load-bearing
partitions ensures adaptability, ease of construction, and long-term flexibility for the building’s
interior layout.
7. urban character
Due to the project’s prime location in the main city center, the design aims to maintain a vibrant
atmosphere from day to night. To support this, the lower floors are designated as commercial
spaces, attracting visitors and creating activity throughout the day. This approach not only
activates the building itself but also contributes to the liveliness and energy of the surrounding
urban area, enhancing both its social and economic presence.
The design incorporates a combination of diverse lighting strategies, vertical greenery, and
carefully considered form composition to create visually striking and artistic imagery. The
lighting enhances spatial experience and highlights architectural features, while vertical
greenery introduces a natural, dynamic element that softens the built environment. Together
with the deliberate arrangement of forms, these elements work harmoniously to produce a
compelling and aesthetically engaging atmosphere throughout the space.
To create a welcoming frontage, wide curtain walls have been incorporated into the design,
enhancing the visual connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. On the ground floor, this
approach is complemented by an arcade design, which not only defines a clear circulation route
but also provides informal dwelling spaces for occupants and visitors. The combination of
expansive glazing and covered walkways fosters openness, encourages interaction, and
strengthens the building’s relationship with the surrounding urban environment.
By slightly elevating the ground floor, the design facilitates easy access to the building. A
minimal number of stairs, combined with a moderately sloped ramp for accessibility, ensures
smooth entry for all users, including those with disabilities. This approach enhances both
functionality and inclusivity, providing a comfortable and user-friendly transition from the
exterior to the interior spaces.
Incorporating greenery into the design creates a welcoming and inviting atmosphere. Plants and
landscaped elements soften the built environment, enhance visual appeal, and contribute to a
sense of comfort and well-being for occupants and visitors alike.
The company logo, brand colors, and the bank’s name are prominently displayed, reinforcing
brand identity and ensuring clear visual recognition.
8. plot usage
The building floor area ratio is 4.4.
The building is envisioned to be constructed in a single phase to streamline the development
process. This approach reduces disruptions, minimizes staging complexity, and ensures cohesive
execution of the design. By completing all components at once, the project achieves faster
functionality and a unified final outcome.
In the design, the arcade is also used as a pedestrian walkway, creating a sheltered route for
movement. It provides protection from sun and rain, enhancing comfort for daily users.
The continuous covered space encourages walkability and connects key areas seamlessly.
By integrating circulation within the arcade, the design promotes an active and accessible public
realm.
The building is accessed through two main entrances: the primary entrance leads to the bank,
the café, and the rest of the interior spaces, while the secondary entrance provides direct
access to the parking area at the rear of the site. Both entrances are designed to function as exit
doorways as well, ensuring smooth circulation and convenient movement for users in all
directions.
The building is positioned toward the front of the site, leaving a generous open space at the
rear. This arrangement allows for the creation of a recreational zone enriched with greenery and
natural features. The open area provides ample room for outdoor activities, enhancing the
overall usability and environmental quality of the site.
Rental spaces and the bank are located on the lower floors to create an active and vibrant
frontage. The use of wide windows enhances transparency, fostering a strong visual connection
between the indoor and outdoor environments. These openings also support open circulation
routes, making the spaces more inviting and accessible for users.
9. planning requirement
Our building is designed with a 3-meter setback from the site boundary at ground level, in
compliance with the regulations specified in the Land Development Plan (LDP).
The design incorporates landscaped green spaces at both the front and rear of the site,
providing a total area of up to 58 sqm. These green areas not only enhance the aesthetic appeal
of the property but also contribute to environmental benefits, such as improved air quality,
natural shading, and a pleasant outdoor space for occupants.
The project includes provision for septic tanks to support an effective waste management
system. These tanks are designed to safely collect and treat wastewater on-site, preventing
contamination of the surrounding environment and ensuring compliance with health and
sanitation standards. This system promotes sustainable water management and contributes to
the overall hygiene and safety of the development.
10. code, security and safety
The building design features a simple linear spatial organization, with vertical circulation
elements, including stairs and an elevator, positioned at the center end of the structure. This
layout facilitates efficient movement throughout the building, allowing occupants to access
different levels easily while maintaining a clear and logical flow. Placing the vertical circulation
centrally also helps maximize usable floor space and enhances overall functionality.
The building incorporates an easy-to-navigate circulation route along with an enclosed fire
escape staircase, ensuring enhanced fire safety for occupants. The clearly defined pathways and
secure stairwell facilitate quick and safe evacuation in case of emergencies, while also
complying with fire safety regulations. This design approach minimizes risks, provides peace of
mind, and contributes to the overall safety and resilience of the building.
The building is designed with small-span beams and columns arranged in a regular grid
formation, which enhances its structural stability. This configuration allows the structure to
efficiently distribute loads and resist seismic forces, improving its ability to withstand
earthquakes. By combining a regular geometric layout with carefully sized structural elements,
the design ensures both safety and durability while maintaining functional and flexible interior
spaces.
The building design thoughtfully accommodates users with disabilities by incorporating
moderately sloped ramps, elevators, and standard accessible bathrooms. These features ensure
ease of movement and independence for all occupants, promoting inclusivity and compliance
with accessibility standards. By integrating such elements into the overall design, the building
provides a safe, convenient, and user-friendly environment for people of varying mobility needs.
The building design separates vehicular and pedestrian entrances to enhance safety and
improve traffic flow within the site. By providing distinct access points, pedestrians can move
freely without interference from vehicles, while vehicles can enter and exit smoothly. This
separation not only reduces the risk of accidents but also contributes to an organized and
efficient circulation system around the building.
The building’s security is strengthened through multiple measures, including the installation of
surveillance cameras on every floor and the establishment of security checkpoints at the main
entrances. Additionally, careful segregation of spaces is implemented to control access and
ensure the safety of occupants. These strategies work together to create a secure environment,
monitoring movement, preventing unauthorized entry, and maintaining overall safety
throughout the building.
11. accommodation requirement
As noted in the previous reports, there have been slight adjustments to the areas of certain
spaces. These changes were made to enhance the aesthetic quality through form composition,
including the introduction of cantilevered structures. To optimize cost-efficiency, instead of
digging a parking basement floor and adapt to the site's rugged terrain, portions of the ground
floor have been merged with the parking area. These modifications have resulted in minor
variations from the originally intended areas, while improving the building’s functionality, visual
appeal, and integration with the site.
The designed building project successfully accommodates all the programmatic spaces required
by the developers. Each functional area has been carefully planned and integrated to meet the
intended purposes, ensuring that the building supports operational needs, occupant comfort,
and efficient use of space. This comprehensive approach guarantees that the project fulfills the
developer’s requirements while maintaining design quality and practicality.