AgriBank Saint Paul, MN Office

AB’s new corporate office has reinvigorated this financial institution for the future while remaining true to its modest roots serving the agricultural industry for 95 years. The 91,000 SF space in a downtown Saint Paul high-rise combines efficient workspace planning with a sensitive assimilation of traditional and modern finishes, new technology and sustainable strategies to promote collaboration and teaming among multi-generational financial experts.

The design supports a paradigm shift in the workplace culture. AB moved from a “silo” work environment with closed offices and hierarchal division among financial experts to a more cross-functional and collaborative environment with open work desks, teaming stations and multi-purpose break and lounge areas, enabling team members to share expertise and better serve their client base. Goals of the project include:

-Craft a sophisticated design environment that supports AB’s image as a leading institution while showcasing its roots in the community and provide outstanding work environment for employees and clients
-Create an innovative space plan for 185-person staff to allow natural light and views for all by pulling workstations and private offices off the perimeter windows
-Eliminate the “silos”by creating a 3-story internal communication stairway that encourages meeting opportunities
-Develop a color and material palette akin to the AB’s branding; reflect their traditional roots while looking ahead to the future
-Integrate state-of-the-art technology into wireless audio-video conferencing, WI-FI hotspots in cafe and lounge areas, and a custom boardroom table integrating video monitors
-Support the change to open and flexible office environment by providing conveniently located collaboration areas, meeting rooms and phone rooms.
-Design the space using sustainable materials and practices including, cork floor, local stone, cradle-to-cradle carpeting, BIFMA level™ furniture, recycled glass countertops, FSC-certified woods, room occupancy sensors for light and temperature control, and recycled waste during construction

  • Type interior design, tenant improvement, FF&E, corporate office design, furniture specification, art and branding, lighting design

Incorporating coffee and copy areas near the stair encourages random meetings and impromptu conversations.

16th floor plan - Main reception and executive suite

Main reception area concept sketch and finish plan

Main reception installed. Walnut paneling, limestone floor, custom area rugs and custom artwork

Boardroom concept sketch and custom boardroom detail integrating technology into the table

Boardroom, custom bench seating, table and artwork

Executive suite reception area with views to the State Capital

Executive offices include custom design furniture and handmade wallcovering

Open collaboration areas throughout the open office work area allow for flexible environment. Multi-functional areas include unique file/collaboration tables. Contemporary furniture adds whimsy and color to the space.

Keeping offices off of the windows allows natural light and view access to all employees.

3-story communicating stairway incorporates unique railing that emphasizes sculptural quality of the stair. Feature wall at stair uses natural Kasota stone found throughout Minnesota and stacked in a pattern reminiscent of farm house. Glass railing allows light and transparency through the stairs and floors.

Employee lounge areas use a mix of warm materials and a variety of seating styles for multi-use meetings. Materials such as cork, wood and upholstery and pendant lighting create a welcoming environment that encourages employees to relax.

Concept sketch of guest waiting in atrium outside of training room. Lyrical pendants and furniture mixed with more tradition finishes of wood paneling and limestone floor reinforces AgriBank’s branding as a conservative bank while looking ahead to the future.