LA Federal Credit Union – Culver City
When LA Federal Credit Union saw an opportunity to add 1000sf from an adjacent space to its successful Culver City, CA branch, they jumped on it. Together, the credit union and TruEdge Builds designed and built out a larger, more functional and vibrant branch.
The Challenges
Active Remodel
LA Federal Credit Union needed to keep this branch operating during the construction. TruEdge incorporated logistics like temporary staff restrooms and screens to separate construction from branch operations during this operational remodel.
Different Space, Same Experience
The credit union and TruEdge brought the look and feel of their existing branch prototype in Van Nuys to this larger Culver City space. The result is an inviting branch experience with a mix of openness and privacy.
A Better Retail Experience
The entry remained but all the other walls and ceilings were removed to allow better grouping of different zones of experience, from welcoming to engagement to transactional, and finally employee back office needs.
This is the second branch that TruEdge has designed for LA Federal Credit Union. Design practices established for the previous branch in Van Nuys were translated to the new branch for a consistent brand experience.
The Solutions
Thinking Beyond Space
The credit union recognized that the new, larger branch design presented an opportunity to reconsider the member journey and the employee experience. As a result, new ways to engage and work are built right into the design. Every staff function was designed with lines of sight and engagement in mind. Anyone entering the branch could be seen by all staff and greeted by the member service representatives. The design and materials used for flooring and ceilings were intentionally selected to make the space welcoming and intuitive. Hierarchical focal points of color and branding were created to intentionally guide what should be seen first, second and third. A waiting area with digital marketing media was appropriately placed for members to take advantage of services from multiple departments.
The redesigned branch includes four teller stations, private office, conference room, break room, ATM/IT room, work room, restroom, janitor closet, and updated branding and graphics.
“The TruEdge Builds team is GREAT to work with and professional. LAFCU has worked with TruEdge Builds on two branch projects and we find that the team communicates effectively throughout the design/build process. They work collaboratively with us to produce branch transformation projects that better serve our members and the staff who serve them.” – Anthony C. Cuevas, Executive VP/Chief Operating Officer
