The Emsländische Volksbank has constructed a new, sustainable branch building in the shipping town of Haren (Ems). Surrounded by a marketplace, a cathedral, and various shopping options, the three-story bank building is located in the heart of the city center. Its pared-down structure of striking Wittmunder brick stands confidently and solidly within the streetscape without appearing exclusionary. Thanks to locally sourced materials, the building blends harmoniously into the surrounding, densely developed area.
The building is accessible from two sides: both toward Marktwinkel and Langen Straße, it opens up with generous glass façades that are bright and welcoming. At the same time, a subtle perforated façade on the remaining façade surfaces emphasizes the balanced rhythm between open and closed elements. A detailed brick pattern spans the entire façade, creating a dynamic contrast to the compact, sculptural form of the building. On the closed side, a delicate diamond pattern made of bricks adds accents, into which a large sandstone logo is integrated. The windowless party wall results from the closed construction method.
Clear transparency and the use of traditional regional materials give this angular structure, with its self-contained form, a modern character. Ibbenbürener sandstone frames the large window front of the post-and-beam façade on both sides. The building was constructed using solid methods with a flexible column grid and hollow floors, allowing for the interior lightweight walls to be easily adapted as needed.
On the ground floor, a passage connects the two opposite entrances. This semi-public area houses the reception for the branch and ATMs, which can be accessed conveniently from both sides of the street. The upper floor contains offices for advisors and staff, while the top floor provides commercial space. Offering around 1,200 square meters of usable space, this three-story building meets the KfW-40-EE standard and is heated by a solar-powered heat pump. An electric charging station with two charging points is also available, along with parking for 34 bicycles and 24 cars.
