Ann Arbor, Michigan
Architectural
Architecture should reflect the level of detail required of the client. In this case, the client is a local bank grounded in the community, needing to indicate its commitment to the area in a new branch building and house a portion of their headquarters.
There were several challenges that became apparent as the project developed. Though located on a major tributary (Ellsworth Rd.), zoning restrictions required entrance from the secondary street (Airport Boulevard). Second, the architecture needed to house the drive-thru required for a bank branch without compromising the clients need for a monumental building.
The solution juxtaposes two angles in both plan and in elevation. This allows the building to demand a presence to both the traffic along Ellsworth and those entering from Airport Boulevard. The main entrance is emphasized by rising into a barrel vault along its length also providing a clerestory glazing to the second level.