Georgetown Nixes Apple Store Design Again

Apple's fourth attempt at getting approval for its Washington D.C. suburb store design failed Thursday night when the Old Georgetown Board rejected the Mac and iPhone maker's most recent renderings. The board claimed that it supports Apple's plans to open a Georgetown store, but thinks the architectural designs don't fit with the historic district's look, according to the Washington Post.

Apple architect Karl Backus said that the company isn't ignoring the board's suggestions, but board member David Cox said "We're frustrated a little bit because we haven't gotten a response to our fairly consistent request."

The D.C. mayor's office seemed frustrated, too, but with the Old Georgetown Board instead of Apple. Deputy mayor for planning and economic development, Neil Albert, said that the office is "extremely disappointed" with the decision.

He added "The community and the Fenty administration are very supportive of this retailer opening its Georgetown store. I'll move quickly to convene separate meetings with the Old Georgetown Board and Apple representatives to reach a consensus design."

Local business owners have been counting on the Apple Store to help bring in new business, but are worried that the Cupertino-based company may simply walk away from the location instead of trying to gain building design approval from the Old Georgetown Board.

Apple spokesperson Amy Bessette said that despite the company's ongoing frustration with the board, it is committed to opening a store in Georgetown.