Looking to expand their market reach, Black Hills Federal Credit Union (BHFCU) reached out to La Macchia Group to perform a market study to help identify a new branch location. La Macchia Group recommended that Sturgis, South Dakota, was the next step to accomplish growing the credit union's branch network. The market was an ideal fit for a new branch to allow them to increase their membership and add new loans.
The facility is designed to incorporate a modern feel while including elements familiar to the members of the credit union. Specific elements include a stone fireplace in the member refreshment area and a custom mural wrap featuring historical photos of the area, provided by the local historical society, which was installed below the clerestory windows. Natural materials were used throughout the building structure to complement the region and the open ceiling allowing large amounts of daylight to pass through into the credit union.
The surrounding landscape of the Black Hills provided inspiration not only for the exterior of the building, but for the interior as well. Warm tones, accented with striated stone, guided the material selection of the floor tile, the stone veneer of the fireplace, and the paint colors. The new brand and logo of BHFCU was supported throughout the space by placing strategic messaging that identifies the brand, but also allows for easy navigation by members. A member refreshment area was created to invite members to enjoy a cup of coffee, relax and spend time with the Black Hills team in a laid-back, "un-bank" atmosphere.
