Infusing Wellbeing into the Design of Citi Bank in Warsaw, Poland

SAAN Architekci infuse employee wellbeing while maintaining historic character of the new Citi Bank office in Warsaw, Poland.

The redevelopment project of the Citi Bank management building, located in the historical Jabłonowski Palace at Teatralny Square in Warsaw, is a testament to creating a modern workplace that respects its heritage. The investor’s primary objective was to elevate employee well-being through improvements in lighting, air quality, acoustic standards, and social spaces while maintaining the building’s prestigious character.

Key elements include a glass-roofed central patio, which serves as the heart of the building, providing employees and guests with a serene, green escape from the urban environment. The patio’s glass ceiling ensures sunlight for the lush greenery, emphasizing sustainability and comfort. The reception area reflects the bank’s gravitas through the use of quartzite stone symbolizing stability, while the interplay of white surfaces and glass walls conveys modernity and transparency. The design incorporates bleached oak and American walnut wood for warmth, felt ceilings for acoustic optimization, and tailored glass partitions for both soundproofing and privacy. Bioadaptive lighting, photovoltaic panels, and the integration of greenery throughout underscore the building’s environmental commitment, earning it the prestigious BREEAM Excellent certification.

This project successfully bridges history and innovation, providing flexible spaces such as a café, energy room, and Town Hall area, encouraging collaboration and hybrid working. Automated systems manage lighting, ventilation, and energy use, ensuring operational efficiency. With enhanced acoustic, ecological, and aesthetic standards, the project redefines the workplace experience for Citi Bank employees.

Project Planning

The redevelopment involved input from investors. There was the need for flexible, hybrid-ready spaces and a focus on sustainability. A unique challenge was balancing the building’s historical significance with modern functionality. Research into acoustic materials, bioadaptive lighting, and energy-efficient systems ensured the project met high standards of comfort and ecological responsibility.

Project Details

Health and wellness were integral to the design. Bioadaptive lighting adjusts to natural daylight, improving circadian rhythms. Acoustic felt ceilings, carpets and woolen acoustic panels enhance sound quality. The patio, with its glass roof and abundant greenery, serves as a calming refuge. Materials, such as quartzite, bleached oak, and sustainable fabrics, underscore the commitment to wellness. 

Unique features include: Fluted glass partitions for confidentiality and style; glass writing boards integrated into meeting room designs; central automation for lighting, HVAC, and energy use; flexible Town Hall space with mobile glass walls connecting to the patio.

Products 

Overall Project Results

The project overcame challenges such as balancing historical preservation with modern requirements. Post-occupancy surveys revealed high employee satisfaction, particularly with acoustic comfort, lighting quality, and flexible spaces. Employees noted a significant improvement in collaboration and well-being, with the patio and Town Hall space being frequently highlighted as favorite features.

Design

Lead:

Iga Sawicka

Aleksandra Niedużak

Team:

Dominika Ogłoblin

Kinga Wiercioch

Viktoria Piatruchyk

Martyna Blaśkiewicz

Agnieszka Kubsik

Photography

Piotr Krajewski