FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Hendrick’s New Ground-Up Building for Synovus Bank: A Model of Community-Focused Design
Atlanta — November 2025 — Hendrick announces the opening of the new Synovus building in downtown Columbus, Georgia. As the leader of the design solutions for this new location, Synovus Place, the Hendrick team provided comprehensive services including workplace strategy, change management, interior design, and environmental graphic design. The strategic approach integrated empathetic understanding, collaborative co-creation, and iterative processes to deliver human-centric solutions designed to navigate the complexities of modern workplaces. These solutions align with the dynamic needs and behaviors of Synovus, ensuring adaptive and resilient strategies.
Drawing on a history of human-centric design, Hendrick focused on creating spaces that reflect Synovus’ culture, support employee well-being, and drive business performance. By connecting current work patterns with future aspirations, the goal was to deliver strategic solutions that optimize the workspace and foster long-term success.
Recognizing Synovus’ deep roots in the region, the firm spearheaded efforts to incorporate the organization’s history and values alongside the practical, day-to-day needs of employees. “Synovus has always been committed to investing in their people and investing in their local communities,” said Jennifer Treter, Managing Principal at Hendrick. “They’re very focused on strengthening these communities by enabling people to reach their full potential. Columbus is one of those important communities for them.”
The new space consolidates several locations into a single building in the heart of downtown. Sensitive to the potentially unsettling effects of relocation, the Hendrick team, alongside their partner Workflow, worked closely with Synovus to develop a comprehensive change management strategy focused on stakeholder involvement, leadership support, and communication and education. The plan considered all phases of an employee’s daily experience, beginning with the commute and arrival at the building. “How far is it? How do I enter the building?” Treter explained. “We worked closely with the Synovus team to create pilot programs, educational events, and communications to keep people informed, celebrate wins, and help employees adapt to new processes.” This transition process was a critical component of the project’s success.
Rooted in expertise, service, and trust, Synovus is a financial services company committed to growth, innovation, strong relationships, and community progress. To express this level of sophistication and distinguish Synovus from competitors, the space aligns with the company’s brand messaging, conveying motion and momentum while emphasizing community and culture. Each location and “neighborhood” is connected through a common thread that links employees to a holistic experience focused on Synovus’ Pillars and Purpose. The design framework highlights the energy and movement central to the organization’s growth, fostering innovation, accessibility, flexibility, and community by encouraging employees to work anywhere within the interwoven neighborhoods.
Transparency and connection reinforce this common thread, promoting mentoring, communication, and an entrepreneurial spirit throughout the organization. “They’re a very collaborative and social organization,” Treter added. “We wanted to enhance that aspect at every step of the experience.”
Synovus Place also prioritizes employee well-being through the incorporation of biophilic design principles, ergonomic considerations, mental health support, and social spaces that encourage connection and collaboration. Key features include abundant natural light, greenery, outdoor terraces overlooking the Chattahoochee River, flexible work areas, comfortable and adjustable furniture, and spaces designed for rest, physical activity, and social interaction.
The design is further enhanced by an immersive brand experience woven throughout the space. Hendrick, along with their partner Minnepolitan, worked closely with the Synovus team to create an environment that engages employees, clients, and visitors alike. The storytelling reflects both the local Columbus community and Synovus’ broader impact, future focus, and culture.
“We really tried to get to know this organization and its people so we could help create an environment that captures that spirit,” Treter concluded.
To learn more about Hendrick and explore other notable projects, visit www.hendrickinc.com
