AWFUL: The Atlanta Merchandise Mart is 3 blocks of consumerism and serves boutiques and retailers across the region... that said, the buildings it occupies are pretty ugly and do nothing to serve the city in which they landed. Oh, and what about a window or two?
The ground level of all 3 blocks has nothing but blank walls and a few sad trees. The skybridges keep the buyers and sellers out of the city entirely. It seems there are 8 or 9 blocks interconnected in such a way as to connect at least 3 hotels to the Mart and once inside, its not very easy to find a way to get to the street level - kinda like not being able to find a way out of a casino in Vegas.
I do have to say that I like the RoboCop style round staircases on the corner, and the building is, in spite of its shortcomings, a bit of modern sculpture that typifies its era in a strong way. Its a great thing to learn from and never repeat.
Buildings like this one are all about the bottom line. Most people who develop retail spaces are very savvy and don't want customers to easily find their way out. There shouldn't be any clocks inside either. If they have planned the floors surfaces strategically the tiles should help guide people into stores. Controlled lighting is also very important which can make sky lights a liability.
ReplyDeleteThe exterior of the structure is certainly under utilized. There is ample space for banners and signage to create some shopping excitement. Numerous exterior display windows would be a great idea if there is enough foot traffic. If there is little foot traffic and mostly cars going by display windows are not as effective as large signs.
The way the streets are designed (4 - 5 lanes one way traffic) the ground floor has been rendered useless by the combined efforts of the DOT and the architect. The Pedestrian Zone is a no man's land. Horrific.
ReplyDeleteTear it down TODAY!
ReplyDelete