Fred’s Breakfast Club was quintessential New Hope. “The Landing” somehow blended right in. The recent plan for the “revitalization” of this important part of the heart of downtown New Hope reminded me of what Supreme Court Justice Potter said when was asked to describe obscenity. He stated that he did not know how to define it, “But I know it when I see it.”
What “fits” into New Hope is difficult to define, but sometimes we know it doesn’t fit as soon as we see it. Apparently, most of the borough’s Historical Architectural Review Board (HARB) agreed, during their meeting of April 6, when members reacted to the latest proposal for Fred’s and The Landing property.
“It doesn’t blend in … not in the spirit (of it’s surroundings) …lacks soul … an institutional feeling … lacks imagination and character … lacks connection to our history … the wrong design for the wrong place….”
HARB got it. In concurrence with the public comments many received, Landmark Hospitality, the new owner of the property, and the architect withdrew to go back to the drawing board. It remains to be seen whether they now understand the community any better and can design accordingly. We need to keep our eye on future board agendas. To remain silent communicates consent.
Charlie Huchet, New Hope
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