In 2008, JAQUE was the original interior designer for Metropolitan Commercial Bank’s remodel, responding to the company’s rapid expansion. At the time, the bank moved to the 12th and partial 13th floors at 99 Park Avenue to create a statement office that reflected their high level of customer service and fostered a collaborative environment. This design established the visual and functional foundation for the bank’s evolving needs.
A warm, forward-looking palette was adopted, with contrasting accents and a blend of materials to create a sophisticated yet approachable ambiance. Leather and glass walls, wood floors, and custom weathered stainless steel elements complemented illuminated Decoustic ceilings, adding a dynamic quality to the space.
The office was thoughtfully designed to maximize transparency, featuring private offices with glass fronts to showcase multiple city views, huddle rooms, conference rooms, two cafes, and open workstations with elaborate baffle ceilings. The central reception area seamlessly led into an open interconnecting stair, with monolithic white Corian stone double-height walls that wrapped around the stair and connected into the ceiling above, creating a striking architectural feature illuminated by natural light with the city skyline as a backdrop.
While JAQUE was involved in the first expansion, the bank’s continued growth led to the next phase of design under SWITZER. This second expansion furthered the vision of an open, collaborative environment, building on the foundation laid by JAQUE in the original office design.
BOTTOM LINE:
The first phase of Metropolitan Commercial Bank’s office expansion at 99 Park Avenue is a testament to JAQUE‘s ability to create a modern, sophisticated space that reflects the bank’s growth and commitment to customer service. Though we were not part of the second expansion, we are proud to have played a role in the initial design that set the stage for the bank’s continued success and evolving workspace needs.
