Imagine Vienna, the town many of us grew up in and love, as a modern, futuristic society straight from a Sci-Fi movie. A slightly extreme, but not impossible, interpretation of the recent architectural patterns in our hometown. Increasingly, new businesses’ storefronts take on a more modern look than some of the older, more classic establishments of Vienna. What gives for the futuristic change?

Vienna’s Wawa is one of the most popular establishments in the town – especially with students. This building is the perfect example of the new modern look unfolding in Vienna. The exterior is sleek, primarily wood and glass: a stark difference from the older brick look. The popular double complex with Chick-fil-a and Flagship Car Wash is another prominent example. As one of the most popular buildings in Vienna, it boasts a highly modern look with white brick as the primary material. But more importantly, the modern design offers functionality not often reflected in Vienna’s traditional  buildings. 

Alternatively, consider businesses such as Chipotle, Walgreens and South Block. These three businesses all share a older look, each of them featuring more brick than wood or glass. Occupying some of the oldest buildings in Vienna, they are a perfect example of the classic ambiance Vienna continues to hold onto. Some may say they favor the older town look due to their preference for that ‘cozy hometown feel’, compared to a modern, futuristic town that resembles other metropolises across the country. In addition, according to heathline.com, the constant stimulation that comes from living in large, modern cities can have a negative psychological effect on a resident, eliciting a 21% increase in the probability of developing anxiety  disorders and a 39% increase in the probability of developing mood disorders. As opposed to small towns, in which a slower pace of life is appealing for many. However, a common metropolis has advantages of its own, large cities often hold more opportunities for work than smaller ones due to the tendency for large companies to gather in prominent cities. The fast paced life may also appeal to those who crave more to do in everyday life.

A diverse mix of aesthetics is great for any town, but what does this trend mean for the future of our hometown specifically? In one case, if the trend continues, the future of Vienna may soon be all modern, with the older businesses either renovating or closing to sell to newer businesses. In reality, how that affects someone is a personal preference, and despite the few objective factors, the type of city someone prefers depends on their ideal pace of life, architectural aesthetics and overall vibe.