'Ugly' Darien Building Draws Complaints

DARIEN, IL — Darien officials have received complaints that a building under construction at the city's main intersection is ugly. But one official reminded them the structure remains an "unfinished picture."

The building is question is on the northwest corner of Cass Avenue and Plainfield Road. It is expected to house Dunkin' Donuts and Padrino's Restaurant.

Earlier this year, the city approved a $150,000 incentive for the developer, John Manos, to upgrade the architecture because of the building's high-profile location.

At Monday's City Council meeting, Alderman Joseph Kenny said he received a call that the building that was going up was "ugly."

In response, Dan Gombac, the city's municipal services director, said he had heard similar complaints.

"Keep in mind that the building is not done yet," he said. "What we're all seeing is an unfinished picture."

Some complained about the orientation of the building, but Gombac said it was designed for optimal traffic flow in the drive-thru.

He acknowledged that the building would include "large ugly utility boxes," just like any other structure. But he said the view of the boxes would be obstructed by landscaping.

"The building is also going to have an awning on the Plainfield and Cass sides to spice it up a little bit as well as additional lighting," Gobac said.

He said he hoped his explanation would answer "all the myths out there."