The Michigan First Credit Union Headquarters Expansion successfully bridges a major addition to the original three-story structure located on the corner of Evergreen Road and the I-696 service drive. The traditional materials of granite, stone, brick, and metal reflect the success and stability of this local financial institution and offer a serene sense of order. The arrival experience is enhanced in both the original building and the addition with a two-story, glass lobby atrium. These tall glass towers clearly establish the building’s main entrances. Its openness promotes a welcoming gesture and allows passersby a view of the changing activities inside.
Only ten years later, after experiencing rapid growth and strong success, the Credit Union approached the Architect with the need for a major expansion of its headquarters. Rather than relocating, the Credit Union wanted to leverage its prime location by purchasing adjacent land to the east of the existing headquarters. The three-story addition, at 188,300 square feet, is more than two and a half times the size of the existing building. The glass and stone bridge connector ties into the second and third floors of the original building and is open on the ground floor to accommodate access to the existing, large drive-thru branch facilities located in the rear. The modern bridge compliments the materials of the existing building and is anchored with a new three-story building that follows the same design vernacular of the original headquarters.
As the lines between work and life continue to blur, services and programs that centralize and simplify people’s lives become the new necessities. These top-of-the-line amenities help differentiate Michigan First Credit Union and to attract and retain employees in today’s competitive job market. Some of the highlighted amenities include active lobbies with a café and expanded bank branch, fitness and wellness facilities, new cafeteria with a full-service kitchen and second-floor outdoor terrace, six short-term sleeping units for out of town guests and an eight-lane bowling alley in the lower level. The MINT is a 10,000 square foot unobstructed conference center and event space that can accommodate up to 700 people. This event space is open to the community and can be booked for banquets, business events, training, and presentations.
