YNCU, London

Your Neighbourhood Credit Union (YNCU) was undergoing a corporate re-branding initiative for all of its branches across South Western Ontario.  With a new location underfoot in London, Mayhew was engaged to design and develop the new branch transformation while optimizing the use of space.  The concept portrays an intuitive and positive member journey where the privacy levels increase as you meander through the branch.  The YNCU identity is celebrated from front to back through fabrics, filmed glass, logos and wall graphics.

A full height history wall welcomes members as they first enter the entrance/waiting area showcasing the community and tradition of Your Neighbourhood Credit Union. Current and past photos of the City of London were incorporated into the pleasing exhibition while a recessed TV announces the updates of the day.  Black and white graphics wrap around the corner leading members further inside the branch where the transactions happen.  A rustic wood floor leads you to an inviting café where members can help themselves to a beverage or simply connect. Custom designed millwork and shelving adorned with household accessories mimics the ”home away from home”.  Small two to four person booths clad in a soft warm grey fabric provide space for semi-private consultation and discovery.  A couple of mobile ottomans set the stage for the kids to sit and act as additional pull up seats as needed.  Now the floor becomes a comfortable light neutral carpet – easy on the feet and ears while a greyscale wall of neighbourhood imagery leads the way from the café all the way to the back of the house. Meanwhile the adjacent private meeting room doubling as office space is enclosed with a full height black framed glass wall system that is reminiscent of home.  With an open building shell to play with, we were able to paint the exposed ceiling a wonderful dark green/black – a modern dark take of the YNCU green.  Black kitchen pendants don the café table while a dropped felt baffle grounds the private pods creating motion whilst adding acoustical value .

In the end, Mayhew was able to provide a professional, innovative, collaborative and functional branch that supported YNCU’s business, brand, people and members alike – a fun and vibrant member experience that truly depicts “a new day in your neighbourhood” ^TM.