The Wal-Mart Supercenter planned for Montcross won't look like any other in the country....
The all-brick exterior will feature Gothic-style architecture resembling the buildings on the Belmont Abbey campus across Interstate 85.

"We wanted that look," said Bill Monroe of WGM Design Inc., which created the mixed-use project's master plan. "We want all the property to be perceived as a unified development."

Wal-Mart plans to start construction in 30 to 45 days on land leased from the Southern Benedictine Society of North Carolina, which supports the college.

Wal-Mart spokesman Glen Wilkins hasn't seen the design.

But, he said, "We're trying to make sure we are more a part of the community. We try to build stores people are going to be happy with."

Monroe said the Benedictine Society has the right to review and approve all building designs on its property.

"We will continue to expect brick facilities with a suggestion of Gothic architecture on all buildings," he said. "For instance, the Hampton Inn & Suites (planned for Montcross) will also be all brick with Gothic detailing."

- by Doug Smith for the Charlotte Observer