October 11, 2006
DOESN'T GET MUCH MORE OUT OF THE BOX:
Wal-Mart's aesthetic evolution (TONY WONG, 10/11/06, Toronto Star)
You don't typically head to a Wal-Mart store because of the soothing architecture. But that might change.Stung by criticism that its massive stores are eyesores that don't blend well with the communities in which they are located, Wal-Mart is unveiling a new look that foreshadows a significant shift for Canada's largest retailer. [...]
Looking more upscale than the average big-box retail store, the new 135,000-square-foot building has an exterior — if not for its sheer frontage — that might be mistaken for a condo, constructed with tasteful beige and brown brick and surrounded by tree-lined streets. Decorative paving, benches and pedestrian lighting give the area a neighbourhood feel.
"This is a first-rate design that is unlike any other Wal-Mart store in Canada," Wal-Mart Canada Corp. spokesperson Kevin Groh said. "We are making sure the stores we build are appropriate to their surroundings and architecturally relevant."
Posted by Orrin Judd at October 11, 2006 8:24 AM
Looks exactly like the Wal-Mart SuperCenter the company opened a year ago on the south side of Midland, and there have been others in the same vein built elsewhere around the country (The one they built about a decade ago in Palmdale, Calif. is the most unique one I've seen with a front logo that looks nothing like any other Wal-Mart sign).
Posted by: John at October 11, 2006 12:43 PMYeah, my favourite whore wears makeup and perfume, too.
Posted by: John at October 11, 2006 5:52 PM