Finance and interior design don't typically go hand-in-hand, but when it comes to brick-and-mortar branches, the two concepts are an essential pair. A branch's layout, furnishings, colors, textures and lighting all influence the way a member feels when they walk inside – and whether they'll want to stay, conduct business and recommend the credit union to others.
Here are five credit unions that kept aesthetics top-of-mind during their recent new branch opening or remodel:

1. Golden 1 Credit Union's Folsom Ranch Branch

Designed by The Element Group, this "in-line branch" – a branch with a small square footage located inside a retail shopping center – opened in Folsom, Calif., in December 2024. The 1,710-square-foot space was created with flexibility in mind, as it contains moveable walls that can be arranged to accommodate community events. Members can check in and receive help with basic transactions at the "quick-assist" pod that sits near the entrance, or retreat to one of the private room for more in-depth meetings. Accentuating the space are floor-to-ceiling windows that welcome in natural light, a moss wall mural inspired by the nature at nearby Folsom Lake, and wood finishes. See more photos here.
The Folsom Ranch branch is one of approximately 60 locations run by the $20.3 billion, Sacramento-based credit union.

2. Tucson Federal Credit Union's Midtown Branch

The $790 million Tucson FCU has been in the process of remodeling six of its branches throughout Arizona, one of them being the Midtown Branch in Tucson. The credit union recently posted an Instagram reel showcasing the revamped space back in March.
Partnering with branch transformation and project management CUSO Structure First, which then selected local firms Seaver Franks Architects and Epstein Construction to help design and construct the branch, Tucson FCU ditched the branch's dated teller line for open spaces conducive to collaboration. The new floor layout supports the credit union's new universal service model, in which a lobby manager personally greets members who walk into the branch and guides them to a member advocate for personalized, "shoulder-to-shoulder" assistance. The branch's interior design features desert neutrals and gray tones, chosen for their aesthetic appeal and durability, according to Tucson FCU.

3. First Tech's Downtown Bellevue Branch

Private rooms at First Tech's downtown Bellevue Branch. (Credit/First Tech FCU)

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5 New Design-Forward Credit Union Branches

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