Danske Bank’s new Belfast flagship branch includes a co-working space that caters for early stage technology companies that are working in the financial services sector.

Designed by I-AM, the bank and the co-working space are a result of the Danish bank’s strategy of ‘making more possible’. The 895 sq m (9,634 sq ft) branch offers conventional banking services as well as the start-up space.

The bank is located on Donegal Square West, in the centre of Belfast. I-AM was briefed to create a modern yet friendly multi-functional space, which allowed customers to access services and information easily, in a welcoming, spacious and inspirational environment. The objectives were based on views from a range of Danske Bank customers.

Mixed-use spaces – including an event and seminar room, and a coffee room – are included in the branch, which also features various digital technologies that embrace the future of banking.

I-AM has been working with Danske Bank since 2013, developing new branch concepts and a rollout strategy for ‘core branch experiences’.

Danske Bank regional service manager for Danske Bank Alan Scott says the project has, “Helped us transform our bank concept from being just another bank among the crowd to being the one the crowd aspires to follow. When the opportunity came up to refurbish our flagship branch and integrate it seamlessly with the adjoining fintech workspace we knew we had a great opportunity to deliver something special… the final fulfillment of the brief was passed when the first customer entered the refurbished branch as said ‘Wow!’”

“Combining future-led features such as fintech co-working areas, along with Danske Bank’s heritage, gives a new lease of life to the branch, and shows to banks around the world a new way of thinking about their branches within a digital environment,” says I-AM group partner and creative strategy director Pete Champion.