Flagship Bank Branch Refresh with 3M™ DI-NOC™ and Branded Graphics
client
James Conner
Location
Ontario, CA
Date
Dec 1, 2024
Service
This flagship branch needed a full refresh without closing the location or rebuilding millwork from scratch. Working with the client’s design team, we resurfaced existing teller lines, columns and wall panels with 3M DI-NOC™ wood and metal finishes to create a warmer, more premium environment.
A high-traffic flagship bank branch needed a modern, welcoming environment without closing its doors or committing to a full construction overhaul. AFF used 3M DI-NOC™ architectural finishes and branded graphic elements to resurface existing fixtures, update key customer touchpoints, and deliver a “new branch” feel with minimal disruption.
Project Snapshot
Client: Major Canadian bank (flagship branch)
Sector: Financial / Retail Banking
Location: Greater Toronto Area
Scope: Lobby, teller line, feature wall, offices and self-serve area
Services: Architectural film resurfacing, signage, branded graphics, installation
Duration: Planned, produced, and installed in phased overnight shifts
Overview
The bank’s flagship location was structurally sound but visually dated. Original wood tones, worn laminate surfaces, and mismatched signage no longer reflected the bank’s updated brand standards. Rather than demolish and rebuild, the client wanted a strategic refresh that would:
Modernize the branch
Improve the customer experience
Align with new brand guidelines
Keep the branch open and operational throughout
Architectural Fusion Finishes was engaged as the production and installation partner to design a solution around 3M DI-NOC™ and branded environmental graphics.
The Challenge
No downtime. The branch needed to remain open during regular banking hours, with minimal disruption for customers and staff.
Existing fixtures had to stay. Millwork, teller pods, and wall structures were in good condition but visually outdated. Removing them would have added significant cost and time.
Strict brand guidelines. Colors, imagery, materials, and finishes had to align with updated corporate standards and coordinate with other branches.
Heavy daily use. Surfaces needed to withstand constant traffic, bags, carts, and cleaning routines without quickly showing wear.
The core question:
How do we deliver a “new branch” look and feel without a full construction project?
Our Approach & Solution
AFF proposed a resurfacing-first strategy using 3M DI-NOC™ architectural finishes and coordinated branded graphics.
Site assessment & material study
Conducted detailed site walks to review existing millwork, wall conditions, and traffic patterns. Identified which surfaces should be resurfaced, which should be accented with graphics, and where new signage would have the most impact.
Finish & graphic concepting
Selected DI-NOC™ patterns to modernize teller fronts, columns, and feature walls (warm wood grains and subtle metallic accents). Designed large-format wall graphics and brand messaging panels to reinforce trust, service, and digital banking themes. Proposed a clean, consistent wayfinding and identification system for self-serve zones and offices.
Phased, after-hours installation
Work was scheduled in overnight phases to avoid interrupting banking operations. Each phase focused on specific zones (teller line, lobby, feature wall, self-serve area) with all surfaces prepped, wrapped, and detailed before opening the next morning. Existing millwork and fixtures were resurfaced in place, reducing waste and avoiding demolition.
Quality control & brand alignment
Verified color accuracy of printed graphics against brand standards. Ensured all DI-NOC™ seams, edges, and corners were clean, durable, and properly finished for long-term performance. Coordinated with the client’s facilities and brand teams to align with future branch refresh plans.
Materials & Methods
3M DI-NOC™ Architectural Finishes Wood-grain films for teller fronts, wall panels, and columns Subtle metallic / neutral films for accent panels and feature zones
Branded Graphic Elements Large-format wall murals in customer waiting area Branded messaging panels behind teller line and near self-serve kiosks Directional and identification graphics for ATMs, self-serve, and meeting rooms
Signage & Detailing Dimensional logo feature at the main entrance / feature wall Clean, high-contrast wayfinding decals for doors and glass Edge and corner detailing designed for durability and easy cleaning
Installation Approach Surface prep of existing laminate and painted substrates Precision cutting and wrapping around edges, reveals, and hardware Phased overnight work to ensure “install at night, open by morning”
Results & Impact
Modernized branch without a full renovation The refreshed finishes and graphics delivered a completely updated look while reusing the existing millwork and structural elements.
Minimal disruption to operations All work was completed during off-hours, so the branch could remain open and fully functional during the day.
Brand consistency and customer experience The branch now clearly reflects the bank’s updated visual identity and delivers a more welcoming, on-brand experience for customers.
Scalable model for future branches The approach, materials, and detailing used at this flagship location can be replicated across other branches, creating a consistent look while controlling costs.
Positive internal feedback Branch staff and regional management noted the difference immediately: the space feels new, brighter, and more aligned with where the brand is heading.
Scope of Work
Site survey and condition assessment
Material and finish recommendations using 3M DI-NOC™
Design and production of large-format branded wall graphics
Resurfacing of teller line, columns, and feature wall panels
Fabrication and installation of dimensional logo feature
Wayfinding and identification graphics for key zones
Phased overnight installation and on-site coordination
Final inspection and touch-ups
