While the lot under consideration is not technically designated as a part of the historic district, it is surrounded on all sides by historic sites, remarked a representative speaking on behalf of the Tuscaloosa County Preservation Society. The preservation society claimed the design of the restaurant would “stick out like a sore thumb.”
Jinsei President Jennifer Mims and the store’s architect Brandon Smith were present on behalf of the restaurant and stressed the importance of architectural diversity to the health of the district.
“We’re taking an empty lot and building a visually engaging store that will last for a long time; we’re not trying to recreate a turn-of the century warehouse where there wasn’t one,” Smith said.
Director of City Planning John McConnell noted to the council that several single story, modern buildings already coexist in the district.
“Having different styles of buildings in the area helps draw a variety of people in,” McConnell said.
Mayor Walter Maddox addressed the chamber shortly before the vote.
“Different people have different preferences for buildings,” he said. “I personally like the design of this building. The important thing to remember is that we want this new store to be a high quality investment for the citizens of Tuscaloosa so that when we look at this store 10 years from now, we’ll know we made the right decision.”
The council passed the building application unanimously.
