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Since its inception in 1885, the hometown branch of Salem Five Cents Savings Bank has always been located at 210 Essex Street. But in 2007, Commodore completed a renovation that inlcuded moving the hometown branch around the corner onto Washington street. A new vision was then set in place for the 210 Essex Street landmark, located in the heart of Salem. It would become a community room - a place not just for bank meetings, but for community meetings and social functions.
Inside the historic building on 210, the teller-line and offices were demolished. The space was transformed into one, large majestic room. The original clock and vault were refurbished. New light fixtures were designed to reflect the 19th century style of the original light fixtures. Several of the existing columns were preserved.
Behind the vault, a new board room, bathrooms and offices were constructed. The board room is designed as a classic, 19th Century-style meeting space, decorated with grand dark furniture and surrounded by intricate millwork. The board room vestibule is punctuated by imported Italian stone.
Inside the community room, Salem Five's signature nautical theme is characterized by large boat models hanging on the walls. State of the art audio/video presentation capabilities exist behind turn-of-the-century seafaring artifacts. A new speaker system was installed and a concealed drop-down projection screen emerges from the ceiling for presentations. The renovation preserves the gracious, 19th Century character of the original bank while providing the community with all the 21st Century amenities.
Click here to see the Salem 5
Hometown Branch Bank. |
