13 May Universal 1 Credit Union – Dayton OH
Universal 1 Credit Union recognized that their 1960’s-era service center and corporate office needed an update to accurately reflect their collaborative culture and modern brand identity. Thus, The Redmond Company is in the process of transforming the credit union’s Dayton, OH, 22,900-sf main office into an updated branded environment featuring dynamic collaborative spaces that foster the teamwork-focused environment the credit union values.
To provide options for group collaboration throughout the facility, The Redmond Company design team created flexible meeting spaces of varying sizes throughout the building. The centerpiece of the structure is the “Central Hub,” a versatile space that can transition from a daily break room to a main gathering area for larger meetings and events. Cove lighting guides members through the service center, while linear lighting in the Central Hub defines the spaces by transitioning from ceiling to walls.
The team strategically integrated the brand throughout the building in the form of intuitive wayfinding for members to navigate the service center while also reinforcing the credit union’s professional image. Universal 1’s logo is integrated into ceiling designs in both the main service center and Central Hub, creating visual interest while reinforcing brand presence.
Renovating a six-decade-old building presented numerous unknowns and code compliance issues. The team continues to address these issues through open communication with Dayton’s permitting authorities and designated plan reviewer to ensure clear understanding of the permitting process and to facilitate smooth approvals while maintaining project momentum.
This project is a great example of how a well-thought-out design can transform a dated space into an environment that supports a collaborative culture while also strengthening brand identity and operational efficiency.