Two Generations of Golden Arches

When Maurice and Richard McDonald opened their first drive-in in 1939, they had no idea what their creation would amount to in the decades to come. From drive-in to self-service fast food, McDonald's has become a household name in 119 countries serving nearly 47 million customers a day. Their exterior facades may have changed, but the idea of low-priced, quality burgers, fries, and shakes has not.

McDonald's at Howell Mill and Collier. Two generations of the Golden Arches in one location.

The following two photos are also of the McDonald's at Howell Mill and Collier. It was not built in the 1950's off of architect Stanley Meston's design, but it was built to look like it (residents put it at around 25 years old). This store features stainless-steel edging of the overhanging slanted roof, red paneling, glass block, a mural, and the famous flanking golden arches.

Although the flanking arches do not go all the way to the ground (as you can see in the mural to the right) it gives the same effect as the originals. This mural is on the drive-thru window side of the restaurant and features the glory days of the 1950s McDonalds. The sign advertises 15cent hamburgers and 3 million customers served. To the right is a image of the original self-service, old cars, and the essence of the teenage hang-out. Even though the area surrounding this McDonald's is of the current era, the McDonald's fits in because it is a reminder to times past.

This later McDonald's on Peachtree showcases the remodeling done by the company to remove the so called eyesore connotation McDonald's and other food stands had become to be known as. It's red-and-white slant-roof was replaced with a mansard roof and the flanking arches replaced with modern signage. Surrounding this fast-food restaurant is a stone wall encompassing an outdoor playland. This design fits better than the previous because it is located in a modern city. However, as you can see the high rise behind the McDonald's dates it and drives the creation of even more modern food stands.

McDonald's on Roswell Road brings a more modern look to the long-standing food chain. It's white and red stone tile mimics the original tile, but is more contemporary and better fits the area. The red and yellow colors are incorporated, but without being overbearing. The mansard roof still stands around the perimeter, but the height of the building is increased bringing in a more modern flat roof. This location features an indoor Playplace allowing safe play for young children. As you can see, McDonald's has strayed from it's original Meston design, but it still incorporates his ideas that made the chain famous. Whether it be old or new, or new made to look old, McDonald's is still trusted for a quality low-priced burger and fries.