City National Bank – Whittier

Location: Whittier, California

Client: City National Bank

City National Bank (CNB) commissioned Johnson Fain to design their new branch in the city of Whittier, California. This project creates a new prototype for CNB, with the added component of a gathering space to engage with the local community through various events hosted by the bank. Located in a new mixed-use community of Heritage Court at The Groves, the project site consists of two adjacent buildings – one historic and one new construction. The historic building serves as the branch bank offering typical financial services while the new construction building contains the community event space.

The adaptive re-use of the historic building was a driver for the interior renovation of the branch. The client embraced the residential cottage look of the historic building and the design team took inspiration from the building’s warm and residential character. Design details feature exposed rafters, painted wood wall paneling and decorative lighting. Local artists were commissioned to provide original artwork for the project to celebrate the community.

The two buildings that CNB occupies are visually very different from one another.  For continuity, Johnson Fain incorporated some of the design elements from the historic building in the community building. The design team also took advantage of the modern features of the new construction to enhance the user experience. The glass-enclosed entry was given a coffee shop vibe, serving as both a break room for the colleagues and a support space during community events. The community space takes advantage of the building’s high ceilings and provides flexible furniture to serve multiple uses for the space.  Two garage doors in the community space open to a shared terrace between the two buildings, providing outdoor gathering space for colleagues and those attending CNB events.

Services

Interior Design

Program

2,476 square foot bank branch, concierge style banking, 24-hour ATM vestibule, colleague support areas

Completion Date

2024

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