Serving more than 100,000 members in 16 locations across the state of Florida, Community First Credit Union of Florida desired to expand into Northeast Florida as part of an expansion and development plan to increase the company’s presence and brand recognition throughout the region. After successfully partnering with Gresham Smith on multiple branch designs and the reprogramming of its headquarters office in Jacksonville, Florida, Community First selected our team once again to provide design services for its Bartram Park branch, which will serve as a prototype for all future branches.

With an in-depth understanding of the organization’s principles and long-term goals, Gresham Smith’s design of the 4,000-square-foot branch introduces a new aesthetic for the credit union through striking architecture and rich interiors that support the company’s brand. The branch’s exterior features a raised 27-foot tower, attracting attention from drivers on Old St. Augustine Road, a heavily traveled corridor in southern Duval County. The aluminum canopy above the building’s entrance mimics Community First’s signature wave logo, and the drive-thru canopy will boldly display its trademark blue during rush hours. The interior includes innovative new dialogue towers versus a traditional teller line. Luxury vinyl-tile wood and a warm palette provide a comfortable setting for customers, while an eye-catching blue-resin wall and TV in the lobby create an ideal waiting area.

Certified LEED Silver, sustainable elements include 100-percent recycled, polished ground face block on the building’s façade, and solar tubes in lieu of traditional lighting fixtures. Local companies will also supply Sheetrock and interior finishes.

Gresham Smith’s design of the Bartram Park branch—which will be rolled out to future branches—enhances the organization’s brand and fosters the sense of member service, quality and community that Community First strives for.

Client

Auld & White Constructors, LLC

Location

Jacksonville, Florida

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Project Contact

Our team designs with genuine care for ingenious solutions.

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Alyson Mandeville, EDAC, WELL AP
Alyson Mandeville, EDAC, WELL AP
Higher Education Practice Leader