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Commission carves compromise on Warby Parker storefront colors at Germantown Collection
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Summary
After a lengthy discussion about brand identity and Germantowndesign guidelines, the commission approved an amended storefront plan for Warby Parker: darker 'winding waterway' blue for mullions and door, with brand color allowed behind interior glass.
The Germantown Design Review Commission approved an amended storefront modification for Warby Parker at the Germantown Collection after commissioners debated whether the company's brand door color would conflict with the shopping center's subdued paint scheme.
Staff described the proposal as a paint modification for the former Fantastic Sams tenant space, noting the shopping center received a refresh painting strategy in 2022 and that the sign band would remain the approved alabaster tone. Staff provided renderings and paint samples and explained the proposal would paint mullions and the entry door in two brand colors while leaving the sign band unchanged.
Piper Gray, representing Warby Parker, said the company follows brand guidelines and that the proposed colors are standard for the chain. "This is warby blue. That is the color," Gray said, adding the company's interior reference desk and commissioned art will provide focal color behind the storefront glass.
Commissioners expressed concern that a bright Yosemite blue on the door could conflict with Germantown's design guidance favoring subdued tones. "I would very much like to see a little more muted color on the door," said Commissioner Mister White, who also said he supports Warby Parker's arrival but favored a solution that preserves the center's overall palette. Alderman Hicks likewise asked to see alternatives that put the color behind the glass so the exterior remains consistent with neighboring storefronts.
The commission first voted on the application as submitted; a number of commissioners voted no and stated they preferred a code‑conforming alternative. The commission then voted to reconsider the prior vote, resumed deliberations and crafted an amended motion.
The adopted amendment directs that the storefront door and mullions be painted in the darker "winding waterway" blue only, and allows the applicant to present brand color behind the interior storefront glass (inside the transparent window area). Commissioner White moved the amended motion and it carried on roll call. The applicant indicated the team would present the amended approach to corporate.
Commissioners thanked the applicant for attending the meeting and for engaging with the commission and neighbors. The commission recorded the amended approval and closed the item.
