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Financial Project Highlights

By Adam James, AIA

November 2, 2022
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In the month of November, we are highlighting two financial projects that the DC team is working on! We’ll take a closer look at the story behind these projects, the progress made, and what these projects should look like when they are completed. Follow along as we explore Paragon Bank’s new branch in Oxford, Mississippi, and Great Southern Bank in Quitman, Mississippi.

 

Paragon Bank

Design Collaborative and Structure First worked together to design a stand-alone branch for Paragon Bank in Oxford, Mississippi. The design will serve as a model for future branches and set a precedent for how the public experiences the brand.

The traditional teller line is replaced by a Teller Pod and Universal Banking areas to allow staff to meet a variety of customer needs. Customers are greeted by a universal banker who assists them or connects them with the appropriate team member. This “people-first” approach encourages a personable experience for all member needs.

Universal Banking, a relatively new approach, was a key driver in designing this branch. In addition to in-person banking, the building will be equipped with a drive-thru night deposit and an Interactive Teller Machine (ITM). Located minutes from the heart of Ole Miss and intended to be a focal point at one of Oxford’s key entrances to the town, a second-floor flex space is dedicated to community events and game day festivities.
Great Southern Bank Before Branch Exterior Great Southern Bank Exterior Branch Rendering

Great Southern Bank

Great Southern Bank in Quitman, MS has a long history of serving the community, having always focused on being more than just bankers, but being friends and neighbors as well. Starting out as the Bank of Quitman all the way back in 1902, they are now serving over a dozen communities with various branches.

Now in 2022, Design Collaborative is working with Great Southern Bank to modernize and streamline their Quitman branch. The new branch will have a smaller footprint to better fit today’s banking needs and will include a night deposit and ATM for customers’ ease of use. With a “welcome change in banking,” the new branch will use a teller pod banking experience instead of a traditional teller line.  Transactions will become quick, easy and more personal. The new branch is set back from the street to allow for easy access parking and a short walk for customers. The bank still offers customers the convenience of drive-thru banking, but the service is now behind the building – a simple shift that cleans up the historic downtown streetscape.

To keep some of the original charm and history of the previous building, Design Collaborative is preserving medallion panels from the original structure and including the panels in the design of the new space. In the new space, Great Southern Bank is also keeping their original, vintage vault as part of the furnishing to bring some of the history into the space.

The new Great Southern Bank branch is projected to be complete in July of 2023!

Image 1: Original Quitman Branch

Image 2: Rendering of New Quitman Branch
Great Southern Bank Before Branch Exterior Great Southern Bank Exterior Branch Rendering
Great Southern Bank Interior Branch Rendering Great Southern Bank Interior Lobby Rendering

It’s exciting to see new technology and design that brings even better customer service in new bank and credit union branches. It’s also encouraging to know that financial institutions are bridging the modern technology with their founding values, making sure to keep their customers cared for. More financial project highlights from the past year coming your way in December!

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