This historically designated structure was originally comprised of two retail facilities located on a prominent corner in downtown Aspen, Colorado. When the owners of the building leased the space to a regional bank, they engaged Charles Cunniffe Architects to design and renovate the building. In order to comply with Aspen’s Historical Preservation Committee guidelines, the pre-existing structure was partially demolished, maintaining the façade of the building. With strict guidelines, the architects were challenged to create a sleek and contemporary space within a historic exterior.
Resulting from the bank’s wish to integrate their corporate identity and company colors of copper and black into the interior space, special attention was given to the materials and color scheme. To achieve the client’s program, copper, black granite, brushed aluminum and glass were seamlessly blended throughout the project. To maintain the warmth of the interior design, the architect selected cherry wood and heated slate flooring in the lobby.
A stainless steal reveal, trims the custom designed bankers’ desks, juxtaposing black granite ledges. Custom designed stainless details support the glass walls throughout the lobby, lending to the modernistic approach.
Lighting consultants were engaged to enhance the interiors with recessed and cove lighting; thus accentuating the architectural details. To foster a dialogue between the exterior and interior spaces and provide an inviting element, the copper wall was brought through to the exterior of the building. The owner’s objective for a sleek and modern bank interior while respecting the historic exterior was achieved with great success.