National Bank: Rooted in identity and culture

National Bank, formerly Canadian Western Bank, engaged Kasian to design its new Edmonton office at Manulife Place. The National Bank Centre delivers a resilient, future-ready workplace that reflects the organization’s culture, brand, and long-term vision. Spanning nine floors, the office supports organizational growth while enhancing both client and employee experience. 

Midway through construction, the merger introduced new stakeholders and revised requirements. This shift required ongoing coordination, design updates, and communication management to integrate new priorities while maintaining schedule, budget, and design intent. 

A workplace strategy and corporate playbook informed the typical floors, while the lower level establishes the primary client-facing zone with reception, conference facilities, wealth management, and executive offices. An interconnecting stair strengthens collaboration, creating visible connections between teams and supporting a sense of shared activity. 

Inspired by Edmonton’s landscape and community roots, the design adopts a softened, hospitality-focused approach. Natural materials, agricultural patterns, and an expanded palette of earth tones bring warmth and texture while reinforcing a grounded sense of place. 

The arrival experience supports the organization’s values of people, culture, and community. A central Community Hub offers flexible seating, urban views, and space for events, complemented by a Learning Centre and welcome lounge that provides training, collaboration, and daily connection. 

Wellness, sustainability, and technology integration are prioritized throughout. Targeting LEED CI Gold and WELL Gold, early material selection and health-focused strategies were aligned with procurement and construction milestones. The result is an environment that brings together brand, experience, and performance in support of people, clients, and long-term business goals.