Akadémia Center

In 1998, we collaborated with Ferenc Szekér on the competition for the interior design of the Raiffeisen Bank headquarters, which he successfully won. The project involved the reconstruction of a complex erected in 1861-63, with careful consideration given to its World Heritage status. The building's limestone exterior provided an understated elegance befitting a prestigious financial institution, while the interior design created a harmonious balance between functionality and aesthetics. A unique feature of this project was the client's commitment to supporting contemporary art, resulting in the creation of a public gallery within the office building - an innovative concept at that time. The completed Akadémia Bank Center represented a timeless design that successfully merged architectural heritage with modern banking requirements.

For this landmark project, we created comprehensive interior renderings of multiple spaces throughout the Raiffeisen Bank headquarters during 1999-2000. Our visualization work included detailed renderings of the main lobby atrium with its impressive counter hall, lift lobbies, office spaces, and the top floor canteen, all helping stakeholders envision the final design.

We developed animations showcasing the panoramic elevator experience, and conducted visual studies of various wall covering designs for the elevator shaft in the parking levels. These visualizations were crucial for making design decisions about materials and finishes in these high-traffic areas.

Our team also incorporated artwork by Mazzag into our office space renderings, highlighting the bank's investment in contemporary art. Perhaps our most ambitious undertaking was creating a massive wall decoration depicting the Buda side panorama as it would appear from the roof level canteen. Since windows were not permitted on the historic Danube-facing side of the roof, this decorative element provided an alternative visual connection to Budapest's iconic cityscape. Working with photographer György Darabos, we scanned and meticulously stitched together rooftop photographs to create an impressive 26,000 × 2,000 pixel panoramic image that served as a focal point in the canteen space, giving occupants a sense of the spectacular views just beyond the walls.