Located at the geographical center of North America, First International Bank & Trust’s new Rugby facility is inspired by the values of the bank: stability, safety, and community. The bank is a modern interpretation of a lake cabin to give the feeling of permanence and partnership. A large timber roofline provides protection from the summer sun and the winter elements while traditional materials like natural stone provide regional context. A sense of community is furthered developed with expanses of glass to offer panoramic views of the prairie, a vital part of Rugby’s identity. The sign from “The Hub,” the longtime restaurant tenant on the site, is prominently displayed to pay homage to the history of the property and the City of Rugby. A redesigned central core decreases the walking time for staff to keep wait times to a minimum, and an indoor fireplace and outdoor patio welcomes customers and employees with a warm, inviting place to sit and take in the surroundings.
Design Award: AIA North Dakota, Merit Award