First Central Bank

Cambridge Branch

After the original 1907 building was destroyed by a fire in 2016, the Wilkins Team was given the opportunity to help rebuild Cambridge’s First Central Bank in the same prominent location in downtown Cambridge. The new building uses traditional masonry materials and detailing on the exterior to tie into the surrounding context, broken up by a taller volume of glass and metal panel that provides high visibility into and from the bank’s large main lobby space and teller area. High ceilings and a glass clerestory provide an abundance of natural light into the lobby space, while electrochromic glass automatically tints to manage light, glare, and energy use while maximizing views to the exterior. The brick is carried into the interior lobby space, accentuated by rich, warm wood finishes, metal, and glass, for a unique balance of both traditional and contemporary elements. The 10’ diameter windmill ceiling fan in the lobby reflects the rural culture of the area and the large agricultural client base that the bank serves.

Location: Cambridge, NE
Size: 7,487 sf
Year Completed: 2018