Government buildings can be dreadful to look at if design is left to the bureaucrats. Many towns across the nation are becoming weary of McDonalds' basic design and in some places town planners have told this and other chains that they are welcome but on the town's terms and this means eliminating the plastic sameness and designing buildings that fit the particular character of each community. The same should be asked of the U.S. Postal Service. The problem is that private chains don't venture into every community. Post Offices do.
Chains go where they can make money.
Post Offices lose money in the small communities. It was only because of loud protests from Congress 20 years ago that the Postal Service didn't get rid of all of its small, less efficient locations. They apparently have found that one way to reduce costs in these towns is to use basic, proven building designs. And this is why Richfield, New London, Oakboro, and Stanfield should be very concerned that their new Post Offices will all look alike. The towns, however, should insist on good design.