Change Group
Redefining the Face of
Currency Exchange
Redefining the face of currency exchange
ChangeGroup wanted to move away from the conventional look of bureau de change counters. Their goal was to create a concept with more personality – something that felt approachable, adaptable and engaging in very different locations, from Bicester Village to Times Square.
The Challenge
Currency exchange is often seen as transactional and impersonal. Counters are typically defined by security glass, creating a barrier between staff and customers. ChangeGroup asked us to break that mould, while still designing spaces that worked securely and efficiently.
Our Response
We explored how traditional materials could be used in fresh ways. At Bicester Village, we gave the interior a fashion-led edge, with offset counter pods and no security glass, allowing staff to interact directly with customers. Fabric seating and textured walls added comfort to waiting areas, creating a more relaxed environment.
Behind the scenes, we designed the counters to separate cash and non-cash transactions, ensuring security while removing the physical barrier. For other international sites – including Covent Garden, Broadway and Palma – we adapted the concept to suit each location while keeping the same human-centred feel.
The Outcome
The result was almost revolutionary for this type of business: a bureau de change that felt more like a retail service encounter. By removing barriers and softening the design, ChangeGroup gained a format that can flex across global locations while staying consistent in personality and approach.
