To assist in their expansion efforts, the Tidemark Federal Credit Union engaged the architects and engineers at Davis, Bowen & Friedel, Inc. (DBF), to formulate the design of their new prototype, with Bunting Construction Corporation providing construction management services. DBF worked with Tidemark Federal Credit Union leadership to see how their creative banking approach might be translated into architecture that would be equally innovative and striking, particularly for the resort area market where the two new branches are currently located.

The new Tidemark FCU prototype comprises about 2,500 SF and will consist of four universal banking pod-stations situated among lounge-type seating in the lobby. Equally accessible is a digital informational kiosk, a bistro-style transaction table and the executive conference rooms. Two ATM stations are also immediately available, as is the customary personal care Tidemark is noted for.

Gone from the exterior are the imposing brick walls typical of traditional banks; replaced instead with glass and an abundance of natural light to the lobby within. High ceilings add to the sense of openness. The Tidemark logo is prominently engaged as part of the architecture, and the credit union’s new branding colors are used in liberal doses both inside and out.

DBF designed and engineered the site, incorporating an independent ATM/Night Drop lane and a circular parking arrangement unique to the prototype’s design. The prototype design can furthermore be “flipped” and reoriented for a variety of site locations, whether an infill interior lot or prominent corner location.