Mike Black proposes identity project for Working Man store on Bosque Avenue

During a recent meeting of the Winchester Board of Architectural Review, local business owner Mike Black presented plans to enhance the identity of his establishment, the Working Man store, located on Bosque Avenue. Black's proposal includes extending the stone wainscot beneath a newly installed mural and changing the paint colors of the store to better distinguish it from neighboring businesses, including Jiffy’s Sandwich Shop and Hobby Hut.

Black emphasized the need for a unique identity for the Working Man store, which currently shares a uniform green color scheme with Jiffy’s and a beige facade with Hobby Hut. He argued that the proposed changes would not only beautify the storefront but also create a more cohesive visual appeal for the entire building, which has undergone various modifications since its early 20th-century origins.

The Board discussed the historical context of the structure, noting that while the building dates back to the early 1900s, it has seen significant alterations over the decades, including the removal of a wooden porch in favor of a concrete one in the 1970s. Board members expressed interest in the historical significance of the building and the potential impact of the proposed changes on the community's aesthetic.

The meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts of local businesses to adapt and thrive in a changing environment, with Black's initiative representing a broader trend of revitalization in Winchester. The Board's decision on the proposed changes will be crucial in shaping the visual landscape of this part of the city, reflecting the community's commitment to preserving its historical character while fostering modern business identities.