Archer-Elgin wins award for new Salem Riverways Federal Credit Union building
Archer-Elgin was recognized for its contribution to the new Salem branch of Riverways Federal Credit Union, situated at 1201 West Scenic Rivers Blvd. The firm was honored by the American Institute of Architects' (AIA) Mid-Missouri Chapter, receiving a prestigious "Merit Award with Citations for Environmental Sustainability and Technical Advancement."
This project marked Archer-Elgin's first venture in designing a facility for Riverways Federal Credit Union. The building spans 3,000 square feet, plus a 1,200 square-foot drive-thru canopy, and was successfully completed at an estimated cost of $1.4 million, including site work.
Several key objectives guided the design and development of the building:
Enhanced Visibility: Recognizing the building's location along the bustling state road, Highway 72, the design incorporates an attention-grabbing sign at the site's perimeter, continuous soffit lighting, and tall clerestory windows.
Improved Customer Experience: The interior layout prioritizes customer convenience, featuring a teller cabinet for streamlined service and operational efficiency. Ample natural light floods the lobby, fostering a welcoming ambiance, while glass partitions in the offices promote approachability.
Energy Efficiency: Sustainable practices were integral to the design, with a focus on energy conservation. The building boasts heavily insulated walls and roofs to minimize heat loss, prioritizing natural light to reduce reliance on artificial lighting, and integrating high-efficiency heating and cooling systems.
Archer-Elgin's thoughtful approach to design not only prioritizes functionality and aesthetics but also underscores a commitment to environmental stewardship and technological innovation, earning them accolades from the architectural community.