Pioneer Bank’s new 10,000 sq. ft. headquarters in Mankato was designed with one goal in mind: to create a welcoming environment that strengthens customer relationships and invites the community inside. Partnering early with iSpace Environments, the team prioritized personal connection, modern design, and enduring trust.
“What led to the success of this project was the early coordination of the project team,” shares Dan White. “The Pioneer team chose to skip the RFP process (which often wastes time and money) and commit to strong partners from the start.”
With early involvement, iSpace translated Pioneer’s relationship-focused goals into functional, welcoming design solutions. “When brought in early, we help the customer develop the budget and vision for the project. Then, we work hard to maintain it and execute,” says White.
Architecture & Design: ISG
Construction Manager: RW Carlstrom
Furniture: Teknion, SitOnIt, Humanscale, Arcadia
Architectural: Teknion Optos
Pioneer’s customer experience centers around one-on-one interactions at personal banker desks rather than traditional teller counters. iSpace furnished each space with Teknion workstations, Expansion casegoods, and a blend of task and soft seating to encourage comfort and conversation. As occupancy began, iSpace continued its partnership—adjusting layouts to meet health and safety requirements while maintaining the same welcoming atmosphere.
Pioneer’s goal to improve the customer experience and welcome the community into the banking environment extends throughout the building. The second floor is designed with a pre-function lobby, large training room and expansive roof deck to host staff trainings or customer educational events and provide a place for community gatherings.
For the private offices, the aesthetic and functional needs called for sliding glass doors, but acoustics could not be compromised. It was determined that acoustic seal on the sliding doors from the Teknion Optos Wall would be the best solution. Optos’ seamless integration with construction and its generous tolerances also allowed for build-out and product manufacturing to continue simultaneously.
