24 Jul Everwise Credit Union – Zionsville IN
When Everwise Credit Union needed to establish an additional branch in the Indianapolis area, they turned to us because, having worked with us on previous projects, they knew we were skilled at navigating unique challenges and capable of building in a restrictive overlay district of Zionsville, IN. Through thoughtful design and proactive city collaboration we were able to transform regulatory constraints into a 3,500-sf distinctive architectural structural different than other Everwise branches.
The city’s overlay district mandates that all buildings follow one of three distinct architectural styles: Georgian, Federal, or Italianate. Collaboratively, the team selected the Italianate style, which allowed us to incorporate a cupola to reflect the tall clerestory windows previously used on Everwise Credit Union designs, while also, for practical purposes, providing a screen for the rooftop mechanical equipment.
In addition to the cupola, the building’s other Italianate features include distinctive 178 PVC decorative brackets along the rooflines that adorn the structure, creating a sophisticated facade that stands apart from typical financial institutions while also maintaining the credit union’s professional image.
While the project is still being constructed, the greatest challenge so far has been balancing both Everwise Credit Union’s operational needs and the city’s design requirements. Our approach is to always proactively engage with city officials, submit preliminary renderings for early feedback, and maintain open communication throughout the preliminary design process. This transparency throughout all phases of our design and construction processes informs and prepares the extended team. This partnership approach ensures design approval and timely construction adjustments while avoiding costly delays and revisions.
The team is excited to build on our established relationship with Everwise Credit Union and is engaged in creating a prototype building for future locations. This Zionsville branch is under construction now but will soon provide Everwise Credit Union members in the area with convenient access to financial services in a building that honors the community’s architectural style and the credit union’s commitment to excellence.