The new cut-through section of the retail strip center at Cabin John Village is in the advanced stage of construction now. New storefronts are being created along the new corridor between the front and rear of the property. Buch Construction of Laurel is the contractor.
Nothing like building a brand new, but already dated strip shopping center, lined with parked cars. Current retail design theory does not create a continues canopy, with punched identical openings with identical glass and aluminum storefronts. Check out Bethesda Row, Pike & Rose, or Rockville Town Square to see the proper way to create in-line retail with unique storefronts filled by entirely by tenants. No continuous canopy, but use individual awnings, small canopies or recessed entrances to protect doors. This creates variety and interest, and creates a sense of place.
ReplyDeleteHead in parking will bury these shops, which will be very hard to lease. A small urban plaza would be better, filled with shade trees, benches, umbrella tables, nice pedestrian scale lighting…not cars.
Who ever designed this expansion should have their architectural license revoked.