Alerus Financial

Grand Forks, North Dakota

The fire and flood of 1997 provided Alerus Financial Services with the opportunity to establish a new corporate image. The desire to deviate from “traditional banking” and present their financial institution as leaders in banking technology.

The resulting design showcases these features yet provides the visual and acoustical privacy required. The curving stair in the bank’s center provides the function of connecting the two main floors and provides the aesthetic focus for waiting, tellers and reception. The high glass walled offices allow the bank’s most valuable assets – their employees – to be viewed as well as allowing natural light to filter into the entire space.

The result is a finely detailed open space that highlights the activities of banking.