When Seneca Savings set out to replace a former gas station site with a new branch, their goal was bigger than just building a bank branch. They wanted a space that reflected who they are—modern, approachable, and deeply rooted in the community.
NES Group partnered with Seneca Savings to bring that vision to life, providing architecture, interior design, project management, and environmental graphics for their new 2,158 sq. ft. ground-up branch in Manlius, NY.
Designed to Feel Like Home
The new branch features a pod-style layout designed to encourage interaction and help customers feel comfortable coming in for advice or conversation, not just transactions. Inside, the environment blends traditional and transitional design elements to resonate with the Manlius community.
High ceilings with wood and painted beams bring a sense of spaciousness and warmth, complemented by contemporary lighting and a palette inspired by Seneca Savings’ brand colors. Every finish — from flooring to wall treatments — was carefully selected to achieve a high-end aesthetic without a high-end cost. The result is a ‘resi-mercial’ atmosphere where customers feel at home the moment they walk through the door.
Natural light floods the space through large windows, while an electric fireplace wrapped in locally inspired stone bridges the connection between the exterior and interior design. The exterior architecture mirrors this balance of classic and contemporary, with distinctive backlit signage ensuring the branch remains memorable — day or night.
Bringing the Brand and Community to Life
Seneca Savings’ connection to its community shines through in the environmental graphics and signage program. Each branded element was intentionally placed to reinforce the customer experience while honoring the town’s history. A backlit Seneca Savings logo greets visitors at the teller pod, while another logo above the fireplace anchors the main lobby. The conference room mural celebrates the history of Manlius, featuring imagery from the 1700s to today, along with a tribute to Fran Marlowe, a beloved former board member and police chief. Throughout the space, Seneca’s tagline—“for life’s journey”—appears as a subtle reminder of their mission and commitment to the people they serve.
A Shared Vision for What’s Next
This project is more than a new branch—it’s a new chapter for Seneca Savings. The Manlius branch captures who they are today and where they’re headed next: a modern community bank that values relationships, trust, and forward-thinking design.
It also marks our first completed collaboration with Seneca Savings, with additional projects already in progress—and we’re excited to keep bringing their vision to life.
