DESIGN DECLINE

The next time somebody asks me why I'm so drawn to the "retro" look, I think I'll cite this example. A while back a local shopping center, Highland Park, updated their sign. The one seen above was originated before I was born. I've always enjoyed its semi-elegant optimistic lettering. Well, here's the new look, updated to appeal to the modern shopper...

(The sign pictured above is actually in a different location than the first one, thus the inclusion of Subway, Sears and RadioShack.)

A better designer than I could easily articulate the many poor design choices behind it, but I'll just leave it at this... Blechh!

Funny thing is, because it's located on a busy corner, the shopping center has two signs. One retains the old design and the other is new. (Maybe a pair of new ones wasn't in the budget?) It's been this way for a few years now, so when I visit Highland Park I always make it a point to enter on the "retro" side.