A fresh new setting for your break

Redesigning the canteen and courtyard at KfW Bankengruppe

The canteen at KfW Bankengruppe's Gendarmenmarkt location had grown dated and desperately needed refreshing. What had once been a rather austere staff cafeteria from the 1990s renovation era needed a transformation—one that would create a more inviting, warmer environment for employees. Rüthnick Architekten developed the concept for this interior redesign, which was completed in 2018.

The design palette of black and white accented with various greens creates a refreshing, rejuvenating atmosphere perfect for a restorative lunch break. The white serving counter contrasts beautifully with the dark kitchen wall, delivering an elegant visual statement. Wood panelling—wrapping the gallery balustrade and stair stringers—introduces warmth and comfort while harmonizing with the existing wooden doors and window frames. The repositioned staircase to the gallery serves a dual purpose: it opens up the floor plan and clarifies the flow to the upper seating areas. Tables throughout are white, with chairs alternating between white and green. Stoneware tiles complete the flooring. Enhanced lighting and acoustics work together to establish an inviting, comfortable environment.

New glazed apertures framing views to the entrance hall and courtyard flood the canteen with natural light. The previously underutilized courtyard now comes alive—a new staircase invites employees to lunch al fresco, a valuable amenity during warmer months. The same staircase descends to a lush garden area below, furnished identically to the interior. With 256 seats across 760 m² indoors and 70 seats across 360 m² in the courtyard, the space now offers KfW staff abundant options for a comfortable midday break.

White Corian furniture brings a communicative, welcoming character to the new canteen. Corian—a composite of natural minerals and pure acrylic resin developed over 40 years ago—has evolved well beyond countertops and sinks. From worktops to table surfaces to bathroom fixtures, today's applications extend to façade cladding and custom furniture like the pieces featured here.

www.ruethnick.com