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For its new branch in Moreno Valley, Visterra Credit Union wanted a no-frills design that connects with the working-class community it serves. An intimate space was desired despite the nearly 18,000 sq. ft. needed to house the credit union's extensive offering of member services. BrandPartners' resulting design is utilitarian without being plain. Simple, modern forms emphasize flexibility and interaction, rather than opulence. Internal lighting, translucent panels, light woods, and reflective materials in Carlson Co.'s fixtures create a cooling ambiance in the desert region.

At the entrance, an exposed girder truss evokes a bridge, while a curved canopy, "street lights," and granite floor pattern flowing to the greeter station create a Main Street feel. These elements connect with members in the area's automobile culture while underscoring the credit union’s extensive automobile loan business. Community connection is further enhanced by a concave community wall.

The mobility theme is carried through via a "side street" leading to a circular area with a stage curtain for display of automobiles, RVs, motorcycles, and boats. In addition, up to eight cars can lined up for display under an arbor in front of a garage door design element. Even the research kiosks are integrated into a wall with go-cart-themed wheels. This wall and other fixtures allow for quick, easy change-out of posters.

Several entire walls serve as 3D facades; built as millwork, they incorporate structural columns. Cabinet and panel placement create privacy at self-serve stations. Internal lighting in various fixtures highlights the merchandise; for instance, brochures stand out in organized rows on the luminous check desk.

Soft, playful curves aid the traffic flow and create a sense of discovery to boutique environments that distinguish each service area, yet relate to the entire space. In the kids' zone, the retaining wall and undulating Lumicor soffits tie it into its surroundings while custom graphics and a kid-sized display case and furnishings invite the next generation of customers to feel at home.

A 78-ft. Lumicor back wall provides a backdrop for graphics behind the teller line, while Lumicor panels make the teller's number plates stand out. Carlson Co. embedded bullet-resistant fiberglass into the front of the teller booths. The area features room for 12 tellers and an 80-person queue line, a capacity that has come in handy as high traffic levels have kept the spacious environment bustling.

Read more about BrandPartners' role in this project