To the editor:
The look of the “Newbird” (Bluebird) building is a shock. It is totally at odds with the character of the community and the quality of life in Leland. It is not in harmony with its environment. It sticks out, instead of integrating, with the river, bridge and surrounding buildings. It looks like a trendy CVS pharmacy in a urban setting. The erection of the ironwork makes the architectural design and site placement a “done deal.” However, there is still an opportunity to modify the exterior design and choice of surface materials. The trendy, hard, slick and shiny exterior cladding could be replaced with “vernacular,” contextually appropriate materials such as local wood and stone in styles and colors appropriate to the region. Design details compatible with local historical structures could be added for warmth and character. This building needs a major change in design direction while there is still time.
Susan Patton Maple City
