Citibank Upperhill

The Vice President for Citibank Real Estate presented a simple yet exacting brief “A box with no columns” with an “International but also Kenyan” appearance. As Architects our main design challenges were: ŸCitibank had already committed themselves to the site on Nairobi Hill for their new offices in advance of selecting architects. This in itself presented several challenges which included: poor water sewer power and road services on Nairobi Hill steep topography composed entirely of black trap rock a very hard rock difficult to quarry; and major road access compromises arising from security precautions from the adjacent British High Commission (under construction at the time).

ŸReducing the accommodation to meet the strict budget. • Persuading Citibank Head Office in the USA that a fully air-conditioned building was not necessary. Ÿ Minimizing excavation of rock and reusing the resulting rubble for landscaping to reduce carta way costs.

ŸKeeping columns to a minimum. ŸExploiting the excellent view over the city. ŸProviding high levels of security whilst maintaining a “warm and welcome appearance”.

The atrium concept emerged with deep balcony work spaces looking into the naturally lit atrium and through the massive east-facing picture window overlooking the city. Columns were kept to a minimum by the 11 meter spanning beams. A roof grid provides natural light into the Atrium whilst minimizing heat from the sun.

The hand-worked aluminium entrance doors (hand-beaten by Samburu women and large bas relief sculptured panels provide the “Kenya” element. At the handing-over ceremony Mr. Hands Citibank’s Vicepresident for Real Estate stated; “You have not given me a box with no columns.

You have given me a beautiful box with no columns”.