But this is Chico, too

Building by building, Chico is starting to look better. I like how Chicoans are finally getting it that looks matter.

My first example is the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Institute of Religion building on the northeast corner of The Esplanade and Memorial Way.

I had always felt that it was a little too modern-looking in that setting. It sits at the end of a long row of early 20th century buildings on that side of The Esplanade.

So I was pleased to see that the building is sprouting some arts and crafts era touches, including overhanging eaves with brackets. Now all it needs are for a few clinker bricks to be attached to the existing brick facade to fit in perfectly with some of its neighbors.

Next up, is a row of storefronts on the east side of Mangrove Avenue between Third and Fifth streets. They must be among Mangrove’s earliest commercial buildings . They’ve been looking like they could use a facelift.

I was surprised to see that the same Old West style — with the exaggerated false fronts — is being carried out as part of the remodeling.

Mangrove catches a lot of flak from Chicoans. It’s the thoroughfare we love to hate. Maybe this row of storefronts will earn some praise once the project is finished.

My final example is a building on the west side of The Esplanade just north of 11th Avenue and south of Lindo Channel. It’s part of a group of businesses I took this photo of several years ago.

The Esplanade is often cited as an example of outstanding urban design. The street itself may be, but some of the buildings that line it aren’t.

But maybe this business is leading the way for some changes for the better along that block. I’ve noticed that building rehabilitation and improved design standards are among the goals of the avenues neighborhood plan.