Wesbanco
The client, a bank, wished to create a more welcoming entrance that felt modern yet non-competitive with the surrounding historic architecture. The building’s Brutalist architectural style as well as its location at an intersection makes it a focal point. The client wanted to introduce a fresh “face” to the building as an icon representing the newly introduced bank. An historic clock located on the plaza and a well-recognized feature of downtown had to be incorporated.
Design had to be sensitive to the roof structure.
Acquiring this project was exciting - a site that is revered by the community and an opportunity to recreate a space that was in desperate need of an update. The project included design, engineer collaboration, removal of existing concrete boxes and pavement, fabrication and installation of steel raised beds, green roof planting media on ground plane plantings, media for raised beds, lighting, pavers, and plantings.
It was not without its challenges. The plaza itself is located atop a below ground parking garage for the bank. This meant working with an engineer to assess the weight allowances and structural implications of overall design and equipment during construction, while also protecting the existing roof membrane. The entrance had to remain accessible during all phases of our work. The design was restricted to the plants that were used due to security issues, and the bank did not want any deciduous trees on the plaza. The building also casts heavy shade along the entrance due to orientation.
Three primary concepts were considered and the final design incorporates bold pavers in two colors laid in a herringbone pattern (also reflective of the W in their logo). Weathered steel (used to incorporate the history of the bank’s original location in Wheeling, which is known for steel) raised rectangular plant beds frame the perimeter of the space while allowing varying height elements. The circular weathered steel planter centered within creates a division of the overall geometric plaza, while also creating a pedestrian circulation pattern that feels natural and organic to the site. The manmade materials are softened with plants that provide visual interest throughout the year. In addition to lush evergreens and wispy ornamental grasses the space features vibrant spring and summer blooms. Native river oats were used throughout as homage to the river behind the building.
Design had to be sensitive to the roof structure.
Acquiring this project was exciting - a site that is revered by the community and an opportunity to recreate a space that was in desperate need of an update. The project included design, engineer collaboration, removal of existing concrete boxes and pavement, fabrication and installation of steel raised beds, green roof planting media on ground plane plantings, media for raised beds, lighting, pavers, and plantings.
It was not without its challenges. The plaza itself is located atop a below ground parking garage for the bank. This meant working with an engineer to assess the weight allowances and structural implications of overall design and equipment during construction, while also protecting the existing roof membrane. The entrance had to remain accessible during all phases of our work. The design was restricted to the plants that were used due to security issues, and the bank did not want any deciduous trees on the plaza. The building also casts heavy shade along the entrance due to orientation.
Three primary concepts were considered and the final design incorporates bold pavers in two colors laid in a herringbone pattern (also reflective of the W in their logo). Weathered steel (used to incorporate the history of the bank’s original location in Wheeling, which is known for steel) raised rectangular plant beds frame the perimeter of the space while allowing varying height elements. The circular weathered steel planter centered within creates a division of the overall geometric plaza, while also creating a pedestrian circulation pattern that feels natural and organic to the site. The manmade materials are softened with plants that provide visual interest throughout the year. In addition to lush evergreens and wispy ornamental grasses the space features vibrant spring and summer blooms. Native river oats were used throughout as homage to the river behind the building.
Project Year: 2023
Project Cost: $100,001 - $150,000
Country: United States
Zip Code: 40601
