Jan. 13, 2008 at 9:13am

Tacoma Security Building Improvements

Better or worse?

There's plenty of action downtown but it's always nice to see a finished product. The Tacoma Security Building had a bit of a facade makeover done so I thought listing what we like and don't might help guide thoughts on future such developments. Here are a couple photos of the finished product:

The brick is a nice touch and, though I haven't seen it at night, the new lamps hanging over should lend some class to the block. Unfortunately the brick doesn't appear as weathered or randomized as other, mostly older, examples around town. The copper trim is pretty clean and matches the woodwork of the door nicely. Notice in a photo taken a little earlier in construction that they've since pushed the storefronts more toward the sidewalk rather than how sunken and dark they were before. Even though the framing is black it has more life, texture, and far more approachable than before. Overall my only concern is that there's now awning at all. They may not be completely finished and I know they can make things dark but an open frame plexiglas design can keep the light coming while helping passers by stay dry. Also, keeping the cover well above head level shouldn't take away much from how visible the active front of the building is now.

I'd say this was a pretty successful and thoughtful change for the building. Any other thoughts?