A New Approach to Branch Banking
Hudson Valley Credit Union – New Paltz, New York

Storefront Branch – 2,934 Square Feet

Hudson Valley Credit Union’s New Paltz branch represents a new direction for the credit union: its first cashless location, designed to bring technology, personal service, and flexible community space together.

Working within a former Wells Fargo branch, FSI helped transform the existing space into a storefront location that supports a different approach to serving members—one that balances evolving banking preferences with the continued importance of personal connection.

The Opportunity

The former bank building had been divided into two tenant spaces, with a gym occupying the neighboring space. Within the credit union’s 2,934-square-foot footprint, the project needed to accommodate technology-supported transactions, private conversations, employee needs, and gatherings.

Member and employee safety also shaped the design. Relocating the entrance from the street side to the parking lot side of the building created access directly from the parking area.

The Solution

The branch features two interactive teller machines (ITMs), with space reserved for a third if future traffic warrants expansion. Although designated as the credit union’s first cashless location, the branch also includes a cash station for members who prefer a more traditional banking experience.

Beyond transactions, the layout provides room for members and employees to connect. Four offices and a dedicated privacy room support individual conversations, while several waiting areas give members comfortable places to pause before receiving assistance.

A conference room accommodates training, meetings, and community events, extending the branch’s usefulness beyond everyday banking. An employee break room, security/work room, and two restrooms complete the space.

Together, these elements support a branch model that introduces new technology while preserving space for personal service and community engagement.

The Result

Completed in October 2025, the New Paltz project introduced a first-of-its-kind branch approach for Hudson Valley Credit Union. The transformation gave an existing bank space a new purpose, with a layout designed around safety, flexibility, and the ways members choose to bank.

With infrastructure for an additional ITM and spaces that serve multiple functions, the location also gives the credit union room to adapt as member needs and branch traffic evolve.

Construction Timeline: 8 weeks