Be that as it may, the intuitive or conscious use of our physiological and mental perception forms the basis of how we perceive and act, in a wide range of gradations. Particularly valuable is sensitive action, which is among the core competencies of artistic and design professions. Interior design, in particular, benefits from a human-centered empathy, from subtle details and atmospheric effects. These are best developed through collaboration among designers — as was the case with the partners in Hard, Austria, a small town at the mouth of the Rhine into Lake Constance: Konrad Knoblauch GmbH and their equally committed client, Raiffeisenbank Bodensee-Leiblachtal. Their branch is located in an existing inner-city building from the 1970s and required redesign. More specifically, 140 square meters of office space on the ground floor had to be reconfigured in order to elevate the six permanent workstations located there to a new workspace standard. This “residential center” was intended to serve as a place for advising clients interested in construction projects and real estate. The goal was to design such a space “in a completely different way.” Ideally, it would succeed in “combining banking with the feeling of visiting friends.” Accordingly, the guiding concept of the design was oriented toward living. The spacious principle of a loft appeared appropriate, offering users a wide range of possibilities for spatial use. This resulted in a well-thought-out zoning and flexible furnishing, where work and consultation areas are designed in such a way that they can also host customer events, such as expert talks. The emotional centerpiece of the center is a kitchen block with a barista-like atmosphere, which welcomes visitors hospitably right at the entrance before they proceed to the consultation rooms. The loft atmosphere is conveyed through open, matte black shelving in an industrial style and glass elements. The intended sensitivity of the design and working environment is reflected in wallpapers with watercolor motifs and textiles in natural tones.
