Why Element

The Element Group is a full-service design-build and marketing firm for community banks and credit unions.

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Why Leaders Choose Element

Banking expertise that drives smarter decisions
Proactive problem solving
Strategy that advances your goals
Design decisions that deliver measurable ROI
Turnkey execution and support
Risk management that protects your investment

Inside of bank lobby showing chairs and screens

Image of the waiting area inside Opportunity Bank in Helena, Montana, which displays the company's mission and history.

What Our Clients Say

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

Seeing our new headquarters come to life was an incredible experience. It was a complete culture change and a true reflection of our core values. We’re very excited to finally be able to do what we’ve wanted to do for years.

John Freeman

President & CEO

First Oklahoma Federal Credit Union

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

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The Element Group worked closely with our staff to bring this branch back to life, and the result is a space that truly reflects who we are. The bright, welcoming interior and the clean, modern design both inside and out create an environment that feels open, professional, and member-focused. It’s more than a credit union branch; it’s a place where relationships grow and our community feels at home.

Mark Samson

President & CEO

Dirigo Federal Credit Union

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

What Makes Our Partnership Different

Listening that builds trust. Every project begins with understanding your goals, pressures, and community role. Clients tell us it’s rare to find a partner who listens so deeply before designing solutions.

Smarter use of space. We help right-size your branch network by optimizing layouts and reducing square footage where possible, saving capital without sacrificing your in-branch experience.

Transparency that protects your budget. Clear scopes, honest pricing, and open communication mean no surprises.

Dirigo Federal Credit Union Auburn Teller Line

Strategic growth through data & insight. We help our clients identify growth opportunities through a data-driven approach that aligns branch strategy and community impact.

Experiences designed for employees and consumers. A successful branch works for both the people who run it and those it serves. We build environments that help staff perform at their best while making every customer or member interaction memorable.

Branch choreography that drives engagement. We teach staff how to guide members and customers through the space intentionally, encouraging meaningful conversations and deepening relationships beyond transactions.

Ideas that move the industry forward. Clients often say we bring “the ideas they hadn’t thought of yet.” Our team constantly studies trends, technology, and consumer behavior to share insights that help you stay ahead.

Proactive risk management, from day one. We anticipate issues before they surface by coordinating timelines and vendors to keep your institution operating smoothly throughout a project.

See What Success Looks Like

Every project begins with strategy and ends with measurable impact from increased engagement to lower operating costs and optimized footprints.

View Our Work

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Golden 1 Credit Union - In-line Branch

Folsom, CA

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NAE Federal Credit Union - Renovation

Chesapeake, VA

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Dirigo Federal Credit Union - Renovation

Auburn, ME

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Ridge View Bank - Headquarters

Roanoke, VA

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First Oklahoma Federal Credit Union - Headquarters

Tulsa, OK

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Branch Construction Cost Report

What's it cost to build a branch? We created a report for executives who need clear benchmarks to budget with confidence. Inside, you’ll find 19 real-world budgets and timelines you can use as you plan for next year.

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