Is There Too Much Brick in Alexandria?

As different development projects have made their way through over the last year, Councilmembers Paul Smedberg and Del Pepper have often waged a discussion about what new architecture in Alexandria should look like.

Pepper, a lover of all things historic, has said she prefers to see brick just about everywhere—from the sidewalks to the top floors of new apartment buildings going in by Braddock Road Metro Station.

Newark, N.J., is already nicknamed “Brick City.” Perhaps Pepper is gunning for runner-up status?

Smedberg has strived for more diversity, going as far as saying he is tired of brick being the main stylistic element of new structures in town. He called the Carlyle section of Old Town a “brick canyon” saved only by the glass pyramid at the .

The two reached an accord last month when Pepper said she was in fact a fan of the contemporary designs for a new “lifestyle” center Safeway that will replace the existing store located at 3526 King Street (to take a look at the designs, see the attached picture).  

The “lifestyle” center Safeway design, which has been successfully implemented regionally in Bethesda and Georgetown, is essentially an enhanced grocery store that contains a more robust deli and bakery as well as a drycleaner, pharmacy and café seating both indoors and outdoors.

But back to the point: Do you think there is too much brick in Alexandria? Take our poll and let everyone know your thoughts in the comments section.