Central Bank of Azerbaijan

The project for the Central Bank of Azerbaijan on a site on Heydar Aliyev Prospect in Baku is based on an economical high-rise typology. Enhanced with a transparent atrium between the two East-West oriented high-rise slabs, the polygonal geometry of the building has a sculptural twist which offers the following advantages: Creation of differentiated office spaces in floor plan development and views. Dynamic shaping of the atrium space between the tower slabs acting as a communication forum with informal meeting spaces and short connections between the functions of the two towers. A basis for optimizing the full benefits of sustainable energy concepts, such as solar gain, passive sun protection and natural ventilation for cooling and heating as well as natural daylighting. The atrium is conceived as a “Vertical City”. Numerous Interchange Platforms inscribed between the towers create “urban” spaces in the atrium which is divided in several sections like city quarters. “Short circuit” stairs and ramps connect like streets the various office floors across the atrium. In addition to these horizontal elements, the atrium contains vertically connected hanging gardens and a daylight reflecting cone, bringing light and green parks into the Vertical City. This new typology fosters a dynamic internal communication culture within the large structure.