Australia's Bank of Queensland has unveiled the first of a new generation of bank branches, ripping out the counter and staid furniture in favour of a funky new design aesthetic.
Inspired by the bank's 'It's possible to love a bank' slogan, the makeover ditches the old-school concepts of teller lines and counter screens for a look that is more akin to a hipster coffee shop hang-out.
"The new design is all about building relationships with our customers, and making it easier for them to deal with us," says the bank in a blog post. "We are creating an experience our customers will love by dealing with us on their terms when they want and how they want, operating side by side and never across a desk or behind a barrier."
Rather than packing the branch with hi-tech trimmings and video walls (although these do figure), BoQ has opted for a softer look designed to encourage conversation. "Self-service is always an option," says the bank "but never a mandate."