COEL and Henry Riley LLP were tasked with a staggered roll-out, taking the old branches and transforming them with a new design and fit out, to create modern, inviting stores. The Cambridge also took an exciting step in opening a brand new store in Bury St Edmunds; it is the first new store that the building society has launched in more than 15 years.
With a focus on keeping it looking fresh and clean, the stores are painted white throughout, with thought given to providing easy accessibility for all customers. Wooden floors have been laid, providing a homely, organic feel and attractive lighting is positioned to radiate a welcoming ambience. The vibrant corporate colours of pink, green, orange and blue are featured in selected choreography of the furniture provided by COEL’s furniture team; the juxtaposition of vivid hues gives a dynamic lift to the pure white backdrop. Local independent company, Wedd Joinery provided bespoke carpentry, building stunning oak service desks with underlay lighting for the Bury store and individual ‘beach hut’ style meeting booths to facilitate quiet working space for the Head office.
Staff wellbeing was prioritised at all times, with a focus on establishing recreational areas with comfortable furniture for employees to relax and have informal gatherings, supporting a healthy working life.
Ensuring it all works brilliantly is key and CPMS (COEL Property and Mechanical Services) carried out many of the plumbing and mechanical works, ensuring the operational functionality is highly effective and constant.
The Cambridge Building Society offers a very personalised customer experience; its investment in redesign and fit out, has injected a spark into the high streets, with customer and employee requirements attentively addressed, evident in the hospitable and appealing stores and Head Office.