Members First Federal Credit Union – Eisenhower Blvd. Branch
Harrisburg, PA
Members 1st is a trusted institution within South Central Pennsylvania. They are known for their individualized service and focus on community engagement.
While expanding its territory, the credit union identified a need to refresh their image to consumers. In addition to planning for updated marketing branding in 2020, the client was open to a new architectural language and the new branch planned for Eisenhower Boulevard was determined to be the first to stray from the group’s traditional design. While the trademark building design, composed of red brick facades, hipped shingle roofs and arched windows, was well recognized among members, Members 1st had identified a need for a design language that would be more communicative of the leading trends in banking technology and activity.
Our team was tasked with capturing the attention of prospective clientele, while maintaining the identity recognition with which current members have become familiar.
Beginning with a site location that was positioned adjacent to two major roadways, the design process began by considering strategic building orientation to take optimum advantage of the exposure to traffic. Formerly home to a gas station, environmental due diligence was necessary. Upon demolition and remediation, the only element that remained was a large free-standing sign at the corner of the property that the owner was able to repurpose to support a large LCD sign.
Great emphasis was placed on creating a new and welcoming experience for members as they entered the branch. Natural light played a critical role in this, as the modern design lent itself to a more open, and airy style. To accomplish this, large sections of glass were employed. This had the benefit of allowing visibility into the branch from the outside, further enhancing the invitational aspect of the structure.
The result is an engaging array of architectural elements, elevating the member experience while communicating a refreshed corporate philosophy. This design package can be adapted and applied to future branch projects, maintaining a consistent brand image and architectural language.