Construction Solutions for Banks and Credit Unions

End-to-end construction solutions, managed by a partner who understands financial institutions

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What We Do

Inviting retail branches, without the construction headaches.

Successful branches start with a solid strategy and the right construction partner. The Element Group manages the full branch construction process for banks and credit unions, from site acquisition through closeout. We coordinate every moving part so your team can stay focused on customers, members, and day-to-day operations. With over 15 years of experience with bank and credit union construction, Element can manage projects of any scale, including new branch builds, headquarters, renovations, conversions, and multi-site rollouts.

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BENEFITS

Why build with Element?

A successful branch construction project delivers more than a finished building. It delivers a predictable process, cost control, code compliance, and a space that supports your strategy. Element brings industry construction expertise, coordinating architects, contractors, trades, vendors, and municipalities to keep every stakeholder aligned from planning through grand opening.

Expert construction management

Our experienced construction project managers oversee every phase of your build with clear timelines, accurate budgets, and proactive communication. We reduce risk, manage vendors, and keep your project on track.

Integrated branch components and custom millwork

From teller pods to media cabinets and check-writing stations, we deliver custom millwork and in-branch solutions that complete the experience and support day-to-day operations.

Local labor, professionally managed

We prioritize local subcontractors whenever possible. That means faster response times, stronger community investment, and better coordination on-site.

Built for flexibility and future growth

Branches must evolve with customer expectations. We construct spaces that support changing technology, service models, and future refreshes.

Sustainability built into the plan

More institutions are prioritizing sustainable design and construction approaches. From energy-efficient awareness to Green Globes and LEED Certification support, we help balance design goals, operational costs, and environmental impact.

Element’s Construction Services

Project Management Services

From permitting and procurement to construction administration, we deliver a seamless branch construction experience. Expect transparent communication, clear milestones, and accountability from the first estimate to closeout.

Banking Equipment and Technology Implementation

We coordinate the installation and training of modern in-branch technology and equipment, including ITMs and digital touchscreen technology.

Architecture and Interior Design

Our team of architects and interior designers ensures the design translates cleanly to the job site, supporting functionality, traffic flow, and brand experience.

small branch lobby design
unique teller bar at unitus bridgeport village

Site Selection

Leveraging institutional data, we support banks and credit unions in evaluating and selecting sites that align with growth strategy, market demand, and operational requirements.

On-site supervision

Every project includes dedicated site leadership responsible for coordinating trades, enforcing quality standards, and maintaining safety and compliance throughout the build.

Real-time project visibility

Using modern project management tools, clients have real-time access to schedules, documentation, progress photos, and updates from preconstruction through punch list.

Element’s Branch Construction Process

Branch construction is complex, involving multiple vendors, tight timelines, regulatory constraints, and high brand expectations. Element serves as your construction partner, guiding the project from early discovery through post-launch so you get a predictable process, clear communication, and confident delivery.

1) Research

Before any bank or credit union construction project begins, we conduct in-depth discovery to identify the right features, branch functions, and design priorities. Our research includes a structured questionnaire, stakeholder input, and industry best practices to avoid costly assumptions and ensure the branch supports customers, members, and employees.

2) Feasibility Study

To give you the confidence that the project is viable before committing significant resources, we evaluate whether a proposed new branch or remodel plan will deliver the outcomes you want. That includes location considerations, square footage, cost expectations, delivery timelines, and potential risks.

 

digital-screen-credit-union
Golden 1 Credit Union Branch Interior Design

3) Planning

Our construction management expertise extends into strategic planning and site selection support. We help financial institutions evaluate locations, identify constraints, and plan for financial and operational implications before construction begins.

4) Design Alignment

Our team of architects and interior designers ensures our designs translate into build-ready decisions. We consider customer traffic flow, lines of sight, service choreography, technology deployment, security needs, and operational efficiency to ensure the final design performs as well as it looks.

5) Bidding & Partner Selection

Element supports bid development, contractor vetting, and partner selection to help you secure qualified builders and competitive pricing. We prioritize local subcontractors whenever possible and help ensure everyone is aligned on scope, schedule, and expectations.

6) Permitting & Municipal Coordination

We coordinate directly with building officials and municipalities to obtain required permits and approvals. Our experience working with government agencies helps keep progress moving and avoids unnecessary delays.

7) Execution & Construction Oversight

During construction, Element coordinates contractors, vendors, trades, and stakeholders while monitoring progress against the schedule and budget. We oversee the process, communicate changes early, and ensure the project stays aligned with the approved plan so you can remain focused on running your institution.

bank-credit-union-signage-lobby
Exterior of bank at night

8) Project Visibility & Communication

Transparency is built into our construction management approach. You receive consistent updates, progress documentation, and clear next steps throughout the build so decision-making stays fast and confident.

9) Post-Grand Opening Support

A branch grand opening is a growth moment, not just a construction finish line. Element supports employee readiness training and collaborates on marketing strategies designed to maximize your investment.

Testimonials

our clients talk

Element has been a tremendous partner in designing our new SMART Center branches. The Element team is thorough, responsive, and composed of subject matter experts when it comes to new branch construction and design. We appreciate their team approach to our branch expansion project!
Michael Anderson
Regional Retail Administrator, Senior Vice President
BankOnBuffalo, a division of CNB Bank
From ownership to service calls, the Element team is dedicated to its clients and their projects. It felt like we worked side by side to accomplish a huge accomplishment all during a pandemic.
Robb Scott
President and Chief Executive Officer
Copper State Credit Union
View Project
The Element Group has been an outstanding partner, consistently taking our vision and transforming it into reality with creativity, precision, and care. They introduce fresh concepts that feel both sophisticated and welcoming, creating a comfortable environment our employees enjoy and our customers appreciate. Element’s thoughtful approach and commitment to excellent continues to make a meaningful difference in every project we undertake together.
Kellie Swales
CFMP, AVP/Marketing & Branch Design
CNB Bank and it's divisions
One of the things I realized was that we didn’t want to just do business with someone we wanted to grow with someone, we looked at our organization and found similar core values with The Element Group.
Ismael “Ish” Eustaquio
Senior Vice President Retail Banking Division
Hawaii State Federal Credit Union
View Project
The entire process was fantastic! We asked Molly for ideas for a new hire kit and she came through with some fantastic ideas in a good range of price points. We ultimately ended up putting together a gift bag that our employees are thrilled with and helped to amplify (pun intended 😊) our brand!
Rachel McKinley
Assistant Vice President of Marketing
Maine Family Federal Credit Union
I LOVE our new branch! It’s awesome and an experience like no other! Everyone that stops in loves it too!
Corey Dahle
Chief Experience Officer
Idaho Central Credit Union
View Project
We had a vision and everyone at Element bought into it right away with their customizations. Nothing Element did was off the shelf. What resulted was a welcoming space that physically shows our connectedness to the community and helps us deliver on our mission — to provide strong financial futures for Montanans.
Pete Johnson
CEO
Opportunity Bank
View Project
It wasn’t just about the job at hand, but care and drive to focus on a common cause.
Kacey Clayborn
Facilities Manager
Opportunity Bank
View Project
Shapes

Ready to get started?

Discover how we can bring your vision to life with our comprehensive branch construction services for banks and credit unions.