A Luxurious Fusion of Classical Banking and Contemporary Office Design

Inside THE LEDGER:

A New Standard in Financial Office Interiors

While many financial firms opt for conservative, utilitarian office spaces that reflect a culture of discretion, a bold new project is redefining the aesthetics of the finance world. THE LEDGER—a collaborative office design venture by KOT Architects and YOOLOPP—is more than just a workplace for an accounting consultancy; it’s a luxurious, European-inspired architectural experience that bridges tradition and modernity.

A Name with Purpose: THE LEDGER

The name THE LEDGER pays homage to the meticulous financial record-keeping intrinsic to the profession. But beyond its literal reference, the design concept is anything but ordinary. The office spans an entire 12th floor and draws architectural inspiration from centuries-old financial institutions found in cities like London and Paris.

Kfir Galatia Azulay, founder of KOT Architects, described the client’s vision: “They wanted the feeling of a European classical banking hall, but with the comfort and warmth of a boutique hotel.” That vision is realized from the moment you step into the lobby, where refined stonework sets a tone of elegance and gravitas.

An Office with the Grandeur of a European Salon

Instead of cubicles and opaque barriers, THE LEDGER embraces transparency and open spatial planning. Glass partitions line the perimeter of conference rooms, offering a visual connection between private discussions and the communal energy of the workspace.

These glass walls reflect a hospitality-driven ethos—reminiscent more of a luxury hotel lounge than a corporate financial setting. Areas for management meetings blend seamlessly with plush lounges that echo the opulence of European salons.

Statement Design: From Spiral Staircases to Patterned Marble Floors

At the core of the office, two spiral staircases serve not only as functional structures but also as sculptural centerpieces. These staircases lead up to a rooftop terrace and coffee bar—a modern twist on the classic executive break room. This al fresco space hosts casual meetings and employee gatherings, redefining the boundaries of what a financial office can be.

The flooring design is another highlight. A dramatic mix of white marble and black granite creates a striking geometric motif across rooms. This layout draws inspiration from traditional banking halls and even includes nods to pop culture—Azulay cites Gringotts Bank from Harry Potter as a memorable influence for the polished finishes and sense of theatricality.

Material and Brand Highlights

Here’s a breakdown of some of the materials and luxury brands that bring THE LEDGER to life:

Each piece was selected to echo a palette of earth tones, blending dark wood, beige, and cream to establish warmth and authority.

Reimagining the Banker’s Lamp

Rather than replicate the iconic green-shaded banker’s lamp, Azulay and the team reinterpreted it. They selected a sage green wall cladding to nod subtly to the past while keeping the aesthetic fresh. This signature color appears throughout the space, adding harmony without overwhelming the visual language.

Balancing Masculinity with Organic Form

Wood plays a dominant role in the design, with dark finishes conveying solidity and tradition. Yet Azulay was conscious not to let the material overpower the ambiance. “The wood has a strong masculine presence,” he explains. “We softened everything with organic curves, and it became so dynamic and light.”

This design philosophy is evident in the sculptural wooden desks, arched built-ins, and gently curving lounge chairs. The result is a dance between the expected formality of a finance office and the inviting softness of a modern boutique space.

Transparency Meets Privacy: A Delicate Balance

In most corporate environments, transparency is often sacrificed for confidentiality. But in THE LEDGER, floor-to-ceiling glass partitions cleverly balance these competing priorities. Private meetings can occur without creating barriers, while the flow of light and sightlines gives employees a continuous sense of inclusion and connectivity.

This design principle is aligned with modern workplace psychology, which suggests that environments with more natural light and openness contribute to increased productivity and well-being.

Rooftop Terrace: A Sky-High Sanctuary

One of the most compelling features of THE LEDGER is its rooftop terrace. Accessible via the spiral staircase, this outdoor space functions as both a café and a boardroom. Employees can grab a coffee, catch up with colleagues, or host informal brainstorming sessions—all with a panoramic city view.

The idea is simple: break the mold of rigid workspaces by creating areas that support creativity, interaction, and mental restoration.

Why THE LEDGER Sets a New Benchmark

THE LEDGER isn’t just a finance office; it’s a landmark in how design can influence perception, mood, and business culture. By seamlessly merging classical European grandeur with modern materials and layouts, KOT Architects and YOOLOPP offer a blueprint for the next generation of financial workplaces.

In an industry where form typically follows function, THE LEDGER dares to flip the script—elevating a financial firm’s office into a space where design, identity, and experience converge. This bold reimagination serves as a reminder that even the most conventional environments can benefit from the unexpected.

To learn more about KOT Architects and their other projects, visit www.kotproject.com.