The new Blue Foundry Bank branch at 19 Park Ave. in Rutherford — Courtesy: DMR Architects
By Joshua Burd
DMR Architects has unveiled its design for a newly renovated branch for Blue Foundry Bank, a Rutherford-based lender, touting its industrial aesthetic and a focus on connectivity.
The new-look space, which is also in Rutherford, has opened its doors at 19 Park Ave. DMR said it worked with Blue Foundry on features such as an open floor plan and a more connected approach to banking, replacing traditional physical divisions such as counters and desks with universal bankers and space for community collaborations.
According to a news release, the aesthetic in the 1,600-square-foot branch also incorporates elements of the bank’s industrial history with exposed brick, steel, distressed wood and concrete wall panels. The location features curated pieces of an art deco moss wall, three-dimensional logos and modern ATM designs.
“Our reimagined Rutherford branch experience and design elements represent Blue Foundry Bank’s new brand and commitment to the hard-working businesses and individuals that we serve in northern New Jersey,” said James D. Nesci, Blue Foundry’s CEO and president. “At Blue Foundry Bank, we look beyond providing financial services. Our new location will serve as a hub for strengthening the Rutherford community, and we look forward to deepening our footprint in this wonderful town.”
Blue Foundry, which was founded in 1939 as Boiling Springs Savings Bank, rebranded last year. The company has 17 branches in Bergen, Essex, Morris and Passaic counties.
“People want to feel comfortable — like they’re sharing their vision with a trusted confidante, not just entering into a transaction — when discussing their personal and professional financial goals,” said Lloyd Rosenberg, CEO and president of DMR Architects. “By stepping away from the almost clinical banking décor, Blue Foundry has made an intelligent business decision that will set them apart when today’s investor shops for a banking institution.”
