DEI, a leading design/build company specializing in banks and credit unions, has brought over 1,800 financial facility brands to life nationally. Today it announced two major new client projects that will further grow its national client footprint.
DEI will partner with BrightStar Credit Union to build a new 70,316 square-foot main office in Cooper City, Fla., and a 4,386 square-foot branch in Lauderhill, Fla. DEI is also building a new branch in Mt. Gillead, Ohio, for Pillar Credit Union (formerly Marion Community Credit Union) as they expand their branch network.
DEI was awarded the BrightStar contract after conducting an extensive land search for the Cooper City main office. The result is a location that will allow BrightStar to stay close to its Broward County members while providing its staff with a world-class work area. As the first corporate headquarters in Cooper City, this location also combines all functions and staff into one building.
DEI has outlined plans to create a facility that will offer amenities such as a training room, staff engagement/break areas, a workout area and related locker room, cafeteria and outdoor seating that can be used for breaks or events. The plans also include extensive windows that will provide plenty of natural light, meaning everyone will be able to enjoy the sunshine at some point in their day. Additionally, the branch will have a Caribbean look based on the city of Lauderhill’s design guidelines. In a high-trafficked area, this brightly colored building will be located not far from the original headquarters.
"With DEI clients, we really stress our Redefine. Rethink. Reimagine. approach to physical brands,” said DEI’s interior designer Jared Powell, “and we are always looking to create a visual experience that promotes the brand and a high level of design.”
With Pillar Credit Union, DEI was selected to bring their new branch to life. Located in Mt. Gilead, Ohio, the new branch will be the first to adopt the credit union's new look following an extensive rebranding process. Leading the new look is a logo that blends an orange icon and charcoal text.
"The key elements of the new logo provided a perfect launching point for our interior finishes," explains Erin Jackson, DEI interior designer. "The traditional Greek key of the icon speaks to the longevity and security of the CU while the color choices are a bit more modern. The waiting area features a variety of seating that mixes slightly more classic frames with a modern armless bench."
The mix of textures throughout the space also creates visual interest while keeping the color palette simple. Warm browns are mixed with warm and cool greys, while light wood tones in the floor and metal accents keep the space from feeling too heavy. Groundbreaking on Pillar Credit Union's new branch was held in early March; the full-service facility is expected to be ready in late 2021.