Rochester, NY was home to approximately 14 mid-century modern round banks built between 1968 and 1974. Characterized by traditional mid-century modern features, including large windows, flat roofs, and clean lines, the banks are credited to architecture firm Pioch & Mellen and were originally built for Columbia Bank.
Approximately half of these buildings have been demolished, with one location in Brockport currently set to be torn down to make way for a Chick-Fil-A.
Despite this, many of these unique structures hold strong redevelopment potential. Notable examples include a location in Corning, NY, which was successfully transformed into “The Crystal Bucket KFC,” and another in Greece, NY, repurposed as a nail salon.
Additionally, several of these buildings continue to operate as bank branches for various financial institutions.
With many round bank buildings already demolished and another slated for removal, it is crucial to emphasize the historic significance of mid-century modern architecture.
As we enter an era where structures built within our own lifetimes are gaining historic importance, awareness and preservation of these architectural icons becomes increasingly vital.
It’s for these reason that they have been collectively added to the 2025 Landmark Society of Western New York’s Five to Revive list, which calls attention to sites across the region in need of rehabilitation.
Photo: A mid-century modern round bank built between 1968 and 1974 in Western NY (Landmark Society of Western New York).
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