New Horizons Credit Union - In-Line Branch

Midtown Mobile, AL

PROJECT OVERVIEW

Overview

Building on the success of its earlier branch work with The Element Group, New Horizons Credit Union selected the team to design and build a new retail location at the Publix Shopping Complex in Mobile, Alabama. Situated in the busy shopping plaza, the micro branch needed to stand out visually while operating efficiently within a 1,000 sq ft inline footprint.

Rather than using a traditional teller line and back-office model, New Horizons continued to leverage its successful teller pod design from its Rangeline Crossing location. The goal was to deliver fast service, maintain existing brand aesthetics, and introduce future-ready banking tools without losing the personal, local feel members expect from a community credit union.

Strategic Value

  • Full service branch delivered in a micro-branch 1,000 sq ft footprint
  • Reduced build and operating cost compared to a traditional layout
  • Improved efficiency with better technology and workspace design
  • Clear differentiation in a competitive retail banking market

CLIENT

  • New Horizons Credit Union

FINANCIAL INSTITUTION TYPE

  • Credit Union In-Line Branch

DELIVERABLES

  • Design and Branch Construction
  • Technology Integration
  • Branded Environmental Graphics
  • Signature Elements

Share

small branch design lobby
credit union furniture in-line credit union cu private office glass wall small credit union design

Approach

Working closely with the New Horizons team, The Element Group explored alternatives to the traditional teller line and developed a branch layout centered around a new transactional delivery method.

Teller Pod Model

At the heart of the branch is a teller pod with an integrated cash recycler. This approach eliminates the linear teller counter, shortens wait times, and allows staff to engage members more directly. The pod supports both transactional needs and higher-touch advisory conversations without requiring additional square footage.

Employee Choreography and Customer Flow

The floor design around the teller pod plays an active role in how the branch functions day to day. Two subtle circular floor elements indicate where members should stand during transactions. This visual cue helps guide customer behavior without physical barriers or stanchions, preserving the open look of the space.

credit union teller pod
small credit union lobby design

Privacy and Flexibility Behind the Pod

Sliding doors located behind the teller pod provide additional flexibility within the compact footprint. When needed, the doors allow staff to create a more private setting for more personal conversations at the adjacent desk. When not in use, the doors remain open, maintaining transparency and an open feel across the branch.

This approach allows the branch to support both quick transactions and more sensitive discussions without dedicating additional square footage to enclosed offices.

Efficient Space Planning

Because of the limited footprint, every element of the layout was carefully considered. Spaces were planned to maximize function while maintaining an open, welcoming environment. The result is a branch that feels larger than its actual size and operates more efficiently day to day.

Brand and Technology Integration

Coastal-inspired materials, branded environmental graphics, and technology-forward design elements help the branch stand out within the shopping plaza while still feeling familiar to members. Technology was introduced thoughtfully, with a focus on improving service rather than replacing personal interaction.

The Midtown Mobile Branch shows how financial institutions can rethink micro-branches without sacrificing a member’s experience. As branch footprints shrink and member expectations evolve, success depends on how efficiently space is planned and how well staff are supported.

Result

By focusing on choreography, flexibility, and the right technology in the right places, New Horizons created a branch that is efficient and aligned with how members want to bank today.

credit union private office