Transformation

Transforming a Historic Landmark for a New Era

The listed bank building in Vienna, with a history spanning over 100 years, still radiates remarkable grandeur and presence. Such a location demands a thoughtful approach to bring it into the 21st century. It now serves as the Vienna residence of the international law firm DLA Piper, occupying 4,800 square meters of office space with 136 permanent workstations.
Before this transformation could take place, many decisions had to be made. CSMM Architecture matters was entrusted with the task of interior adaptation, executing it with precision and care.
The first step was the creation of an intelligent spatial structure featuring versatile work areas to accommodate a range of user needs. Next came the consideration of the building’s identity: the goal was to evolve the historic character with a future-oriented vision through innovative planning.
Finally, it was essential to ensure that DLA Piper’s corporate culture could be reflected and expressed within the newly designed spaces. This required not only preserving, restoring, and skillfully integrating the neoclassical and representative qualities of the historic architecture, but also addressing modern demands for spatial disposition, equipment, and functionality.

A Dialogue Between History and Innovation

Today, the building’s historic spirit is most vividly experienced through its striking main portal and the noble staircase leading to the bel étage, where large-scale marble panels, elaborate friezes, fine wood elements, and embossed leather wall coverings have been meticulously preserved.
At the heart of the rectangular floor plan rises an impressive glass dome at a height of 13 meters, set above an octagonal space surrounded by marble columns and four open fireplaces.
This area now houses the central employee lounge — the so-called “Social Heart” of the firm. Flexible seating arrangements and a modular table ensemble allow the space to adapt to various configurations, either as a single centerpiece or grouped for larger gatherings.
The first floor combines representative corridors with meeting rooms and various work and social areas. The office spaces are primarily designed according to contemporary usage standards, with some areas configured as open-plan zones where acoustic partitions help to define distinct workspaces.
The symbiosis of historical and modern elements creates new spaces of possibility, addressing a variety of needs — from retreat and collaboration to social interaction and events.

What do you consider the key qualities of a good workplace?
CSMM Architecture matters:

The workplaces of the future must be more than mere spaces of necessity — they must create inspiring environments that foster creativity and collaboration. Well-designed offices are not just functional places of work; they serve as social and cultural hubs that strengthen employees’ identification with and commitment to their organization. Through hybrid and flexible concepts that seamlessly combine the ideas of “hub” and “home,” companies can create sustainable working environments that equally promote motivation, well-being, and long-term success.

Do you see parallels between the design of living and working spaces?

Absolutely. Whether for living or working, the goal is to create spaces where people feel comfortable and where their needs are met. Well-thought-out environments — at home as well as at the office — foster creativity, motivation, and a sense of community. The office of the future is a space of possibilities that unites the best of both worlds: it offers an inspiring working environment that is as welcoming and cozy as one’s own home.

Which functional aspects do you consider decisive for the future development of workspaces?

Above all, workspaces must offer flexible layouts that can easily adapt to changing work requirements and hybrid models. Key functional aspects include ergonomic workstations equipped with appropriate technologies and furnishings, along with a carefully considered spatial layout that supports both efficient workflows and spontaneous communication. Moreover, the spaces should provide a high degree of adaptability, allowing them to be used either as individual retreats or collaborative zones depending on the need.