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(Linz/Klagenfurt, September 15, 2025) After two years of major renovations, the headquarters of Kärntner Sparkasse at Neuer Platz in Klagenfurt am Wörthersee is reopening its doors today. The result goes far beyond traditional banking and invites customers to stay, explore, and discover. From the first idea to the grand reopening, Ars Electronica Solutions accompanied the project and implemented a total of six installations. These make the history and values of Kärntner Sparkasse tangible, trace the evolution of modern means of payment, and allow visitors to take a closer digital look at banknotes.

Interactive Spatial Design

In the foyer, a “Values Compass” welcomes visitors and allows them to actively shape the atmosphere of the space. Using a rotary control, guests can select the core values of Kärntner Sparkasse—especially reliability, courage, and regionality—which are visualized in vibrant colors. Once a value is selected, a video plays on a screen showing concrete examples of how the Sparkasse puts this value into practice in everyday life. At the same time, the steps of the central staircase respond: their LED displays glow in the chosen color, making the concept visible. When the terminal is idle, an animated color world unfolds, inspired by the aesthetics of modern banknotes.

As a preview of the reopening, Ars Electronica Solutions developed a colorful façade projection based on the Values Compass. Today, September 15, marks the final showing of this light spectacle for now.

Birdhouses and Sustainability

Kärntner Sparkasse’s commitment to sustainability is presented in a multi-layered concept that combines visual, acoustic, and interactive elements. Through the entrance holes of several birdhouses made of recycled polystyrene, visitors can peek into videos and animations showcasing programs and projects on sustainability, regionality, and biodiversity. Selected content has been specially adapted for children.

Currencies in Transition

The new bank building not only highlights current Sparkasse projects but also reflects on banking itself and its historical development. From the first barter systems around 6000 BC to the present day, the history of money is illustrated on a six-meter-wide print. This display is enriched by digital content: an entertaining slideshow with “True Facts” shares curiosities from currency history, while another screen provides real-time comparisons of exchange rates.

Another installation is dedicated to the artistic design of banknotes. On a circular touchscreen, visitors can digitally explore the intricate details of real bills. In addition, artistic reinterpretations are presented: Carinthian artist Elisabeth Wedenig designed alternative banknotes ranging from the 5- to 200-euro note. In the future, works by other artists will also be displayed.

Multitouch Display and Hologram

Upstairs, visitors can easily immerse themselves in the Kärntner Sparkasse archive. A multitouch display integrated into the roof of a building model opens up a view of the past: arranged chronologically, it offers photos and information on milestones such as the founding of the Sparkasse, the very first World Savings Day, and the introduction of the mascot “Sparefroh.”

Special achievements are also highlighted: Kärntner Sparkasse has repeatedly received the Recommender Award from the Austrian Financial Marketing Association for its outstanding customer orientation. The trophy itself is now displayed in the foyer—enhanced with digital holographic content that brings the award to life.

Ars Electronica Solutions

Ars Electronica Solutions designs and implements interactive, multisensory experiences. Since its founding in 2011, this Ars Electronica division has developed creative, customized concepts for exhibitions, brand worlds, trade fairs, and events. The company focuses on creating tailor-made solutions in close collaboration with clients. 

Kärntner Sparkasse

Kärntner Sparkasse is part of the Austrian Sparkasse Group and is headquartered in Klagenfurt am Wörthersee. In the Carinthia region, the financial institution operates 51 branches, plus another 11 in Slovenia. Renovations of the headquarters at Neuer Platz 14 began in 2023, with the grand reopening now taking place in September 2025.