STCU Mt. Spokane Branch: A Collaborative Approach to Community-Focused Banking Design
The grand opening of STCU’s Mt. Spokane Branch marks more than the completion of a new building. This project represents a shared commitment to thoughtful growth, community presence, and long-term functionality. Designed in close collaboration with STCU and the project’s development team, this new branch brings together proven design strategies and site-specific solutions to support both members and staff from day one.
The branch is based on STCU’s established Rathdrum Branch design, with thoughtful adaptations made to accommodate the Mt. Spokane site, including the addition of a drive-through canopy and carefully planned site circulation. This approach allowed the team to build upon what already works while ensuring the building responds to its immediate context.
Designed for Function, Flexibility, and Experience
At the core of the project was a focus on everyday use. For members, this meant intuitive access points, clearly organized drive-through teller lanes, and convenient ATM services. For staff, it meant creating interior spaces that support productivity, privacy, and comfort; without unnecessary complexity.
Inside, the branch includes teller kiosks, private offices, open office work areas, a staff lounge, workroom, and dedicated restrooms for both members and staff. These spaces were planned to promote efficiency while remaining adaptable as operational needs evolve. The result is a workplace that supports collaboration and focus while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
Exterior materials were selected for durability and visual clarity, combining masonry, stone, metal elements, and aluminum storefront windows. The use of a metal roof and carefully composed elevations helps reinforce the building’s presence while maintaining a clean, contemporary aesthetic aligned with STCU’s brand.
A Site-Specific, Collaborative Process
From the earliest schematic design phase, coordination and collaboration were central to the project’s success. Bernardo Wills worked closely with STCU, the developer, and local jurisdictions to ensure the design met functional goals while navigating permitting requirements efficiently.
The design process progressed through schematic design, design development, and construction documents with a clear focus on communication and predictability. Early meetings with Spokane County and ongoing coordination with consultants allowed the team to address site constraints, stormwater management, grading, utilities, and circulation holistically reducing surprises and supporting a smooth path to construction.
Site improvements include parking areas, landscaping and irrigation, site lighting, sidewalks, a screened trash enclosure, and a dedicated drive-through ATM and teller structure with canopy. Together, these elements create a cohesive site that supports both vehicular and pedestrian movement while reinforcing a sense of order and accessibility.
Supporting Growth Through Thoughtful Design
For financial institutions, branch design plays a critical role in balancing brand consistency with local responsiveness. The Mt. Spokane Branch demonstrates how adaptable design standards can be applied thoughtfully—maintaining operational efficiency while still responding to the unique characteristics of a site and community.
This project reflects a shared understanding that successful commercial developments are built on alignment: alignment between owner and developer, between operations and experience, and between design intent and real-world use. By prioritizing collaboration and clarity throughout the process, the team delivered a facility that will serve STCU members and staff well into the future.
As STCU opens its doors at Mt. Spokane, we’re proud to have partnered on a project that supports both community connection and long-term performance—proof that thoughtful, well-coordinated design makes a lasting difference.