Port Washington State Bank - Fredonia
Before
Existing building is under-sized, outdated, and lacks visibility from the street.
Battling the Challenges of an Underperforming Workspace
Over the last 30 years, Port Washington State Bank in Fredonia, Wisconsin, built a loyal customer base among local residents. But despite some growth in the market, the bank was feeling the strain of an inadequate workspace.
A lack of first-floor amenities was the primary issue. There was no meeting space on the first floor, so important customer consultations were often held in cramped offices. Not having first floor bathrooms meant that the bank staff were often forced to escort customers down to the lower level. This created both inefficiency and security concerns.
Additionally, the building's exterior was outdated, underwhelming, and lacked visibility and prominence, despite its prime location at the main intersection leading into downtown. In short, the building did not represent the bank’s brand or their company values.
Completely transforming the interior and exterior propels the bank branch towards future growth.
Transformative Change that Made the Most of What Was Already There
The bank made some small cosmetic improvements over the years, but they knew that fully fixing their workspace problems would require a substantial overhaul. But one of the major questions facing the bank was what to do with the existing building. Could it be salvaged in some way or should it be completely demolished to make room for something new?
E3 Architecture worked closely with the bank and the rest of the project team to evaluate these options. After careful analysis, the project team decided the most effective solution was to create a sizable building addition that retained the value of the existing building by reusing its structural support systems.
This analytic approach produced a solution that created the transformational change needed while saving the bank hundreds of thousands of dollars on the project.
Using stone and wood throughout the building creates a welcoming atmosphere and ties into Fredonia’s history.
Bold Building Design Infused with Local Heritage
The existing building’s short stature and lack of interesting detail made it easy to overlook. E3 Architecture drastically increased its presence along the nearby intersection by raising the height of the existing walls and adding prominent roof lines that highlight the main entry and lobby. Now, the bank is the focus of the intersection and commands attention!
Port Washington State Bank wants all its branches to feel at home amongst their surroundings and reflect the communities they serve. This is one of the key attributes of their brand. Incorporating natural materials throughout the building helped to connect it with the rural environment. The limestone foundation walls pay tribute to the old fieldstone barns that are scattered across the Fredonia landscape and acknowledge the town’s agricultural roots. The use of wood on the interior and exterior of the building celebrates the beauty of the surrounding woodlands and references Fredonia’s roots in the lumber industry. And when paired with locally themed artwork and a large historic photo mural, the design thoroughly captures the rich history of the town.
New spaces and amenities increase customer dwell time and help maximize the bank’s growth potential.
Optimizing for Long-Term Success
What once seemed like an irredeemable building, has now been completely reinvented into a workspace that is optimized for staff productivity, and an exceptional customer experience.
The new work areas and offices are free of distracting noise, full of natural light, and set up to streamline operational workflows. New first-floor public bathrooms eliminate the inefficiency of staff escorting customers to the lower level. Meetings with customers are more convenient and efficient now thanks to the expansive new meeting space.
E3 Architecture revitalized the customer experience by transforming the old, undersized waiting area into an expansive and welcoming space full of natural light. The new refreshment station and cozy fireside seating are increasing customer dwell times. Adding a kid’s area that features a miniature bank playhouse helps to entertain young imaginations, making the banking experience more enjoyable and stress-free for customers with young children.
With the complete transformation of their space, Port Washington State Bank has everything it needs to accelerate growth in a promising market.
Testimonial
“One of [Matt’s] greatest strengths is his ability to take feedback, especially on the finer details, and incorporate it in a way that enhances constructability. He listens intently, adapts, and refines his designs to improve efficiency and execution without compromising vision or quality. His responsiveness, professionalism, and ability to navigate challenges make him a trusted partner on any project.”
Taylor Hurtgen
Project Manager
The Redmond Company
Project Details
Location: Fredonia, Wisconsin
Size: 7,765 SF
Status: In Construction
Completion Date: May 2025 (estimated)
Services: Full Architectural Design
Project Team
Client: Port Washington State Bank
Architect: E3 Architecture
Contractor: The Redmond Company
Civil Engineer: Parish Survey + Engineering
Landscape Designer: Parish Survey + Engineering
Structural Engineer: Reyn Engineering
CONTACT
E3 Architecture helps Wisconsin businesses optimize their space, so they can maximize their potential.
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