As Capital One transforms its retail properties, the bank wanted to create a signature branch for their prominent location at Union Square in New York City. The three-story, 12,000-SF flagship combines branch operations, staff training facilities and generous public gathering spaces into one. The entry level is entirely public-facing and is anchored by a Peet’s Coffee shop.

A dramatic stair invites customers to a second floor of gathering spaces, teller desks, private consulting areas and offices. Throughout the space are designs that tie in the brand message including the wood-slat signage with incorporated LED strips that hang above the ground floor community bar and charging station.

An LED wall that frames the ATMs on the ground floor extends to the second level where it emerges from the building as an awning and polychromatic digital screen. An LED wall that frames the ATMs on the ground floor extends to the second level where it emerges from the building as an awning and polychromatic digital screen.

The main materials used are felt in each of the flagships nooks, wood in both rough-hewn and finished variations and concrete. The use of wood throughout the space represents a continuity between the flagship and Capital One’s branches. The lower level features meeting spaces and small conference rooms for community and employee groups alike.

LED strips and circular wood pendants provide energetic contrast to the warm, wood-paneled walls. The flagship provides a comfortable financial experience that is different from other banking environments.

The ground floor encourages lingering by encorporating ATMs, a community space, seating, free Wi-Fi and Peet’s Coffee. Patrons are encouraged to take their coffee upstairs to the mezzanine where branch tellers and bankers are located.

Design: CallisonRTKL
Photography: ©Andrea Brizzi Photography