Buffalo Rising Online

Jun 15th, 10:35am By queenseyes

It doesn't seem that long ago that an architectural design controversy surrounded the newly built Lexington Co-op. Since that time, no matter what your original stance was, you must admit that The Co-op has added life and vibrancy to Elmwood. Last summer management added a custom patio to the front of the building while an ever-full bike rack is situated near the entrance. There is plenty of glass (both upstairs and down) making for an inviting building. The addition of hanging planters, colorful garden racks, an October storm statue, spot lighting and an awning really helps to soften what some might consider a 'hard' building. The Co-op has become a mainstay on Elmwood.

Though I am not a big Dash's shopper, I understand that the market is an excellent Hertel Avenue business. When Latina's closed on Elmwood, many people hoped that Dash's would look at the empty market building. In recent years Hertel has made so much progress in attracting desirable businesses partially due to the improved street infrastructure (stamped sidewalks, lighting, etc.). In the past, Dash's blended in with the understated streetscape, but now it sticks out as a business that didn't keep up appearances with the improvements. I understand that Dash's is a different type of market when compared to a Guercio's or The Co-op, but wouldn't it be nice to see the Hertel market show off just a little bit?

When I see the exterior of the market I think of a drug store, not a welcoming market place. The front is very sterile - do they sell any plants or produce inside? It might be nice to offer neighbors a place to rest if they are walking to pick up groceries (even if there is not a cafe). In a perfect world the storefront would need a complete makeover. But that might be too expensive for the business. It would be nice to see some color added to the facade in the form of greenery. Currently there is a long cold stretch of uninviting concrete and that's about it. The windows that are there are covered with discount posters making it very difficult to see anything inside. I'm sure that most people drive to Dash's and don't even pay attention to the front. I do know that The Co-op and Guercio's attract many walkers (and bikers) from the neighborhood. I bet that if Dash's added some life to the front of the business, the message would be heard and new customers would stop to see what was inside (or even outside).