Private banking and VIP lounge interior design

Money is only a tool - The Difference is Access

Recent trends in private banking and VIP lounge design reflect a clear and growing shift toward creating highly exclusive, hospitality-inspired environments within traditional bank branches. As the expectations of high-net-worth individuals evolve, financial institutions are reimagining their “phygital”, physical and digital, spaces to deliver more than just financial services — they are designing immersive experiences that emphasize privacy, comfort, and a heightened level of personal attention.

At Campbell Rigg, we’ve seen this transformation first-hand through our brand and interior design work for Zenit Private Bank’s Wealth Management business. Our collaboration helped shape a refined customer experience that bridges the worlds of finance and hospitality. By redefining how affluent clients interact with their banks, we helped Zenit deliver a space that feels both exclusive and welcoming — a reflection of their clients’ lifestyle and aspirations.

One of the most significant developments in this sector is the introduction of private zones or VIP lounges within bank branches, reserved exclusively for wealth clients. These spaces are purposefully separated from the main banking environment — not only in layout but in tone and atmosphere. Drawing inspiration from luxury hotels, airlines, airport lounges and private members’ clubs, they are designed to make clients feel valued, relaxed, and at ease during even the most sensitive financial conversations.

Design plays a critical role in creating this experience. At Campbell Rigg, we focus on layered textures, natural materials such as timber and stone, bespoke lighting, acoustic insulation for discretion, and ambient elements like scent and sound. In our work for Zenit, we integrated private meeting suites, concierge-style welcome points, artisanal refreshment stations, and intuitive digital touch-points — all crafted to serve the specific expectations of the wealth segment.

This shift is driven by a broader lifestyle trend among affluent clients, who are used to premium service in aviation, luxury hospitality, and retail. Increasingly, they expect the same level of curated experience from their banks. They value environments that reflect their identity and time, preferring thoughtful, brand-rich spaces over generic service points.

In a digital-first world, private banks understand that physical branches must deliver more than convenience — they must express trust, distinction, and emotional resonance. Through our strategic design approach, Campbell Rigg helps banks like Zenit transform their branches into powerful brand assets and relationship hubs. The future of private banking is personal, immersive, and deeply human — and design is leading the way.