In Sedona, Arizona, stands a McDonald’s unlike any other. Instead of the iconic golden arches, this location proudly displays turquoise arches — a symbol of a community’s determination to protect its natural beauty.
A City of Red Rocks
Sedona is famous for its breathtaking red rock formations that shift in color with the light, glowing fiery red in the morning and soft pink at sunset. To preserve this unique landscape, the city enforces strict design rules so that new buildings do not disrupt the harmony of their surroundings.
The Challenge for McDonald’s
When McDonald’s planned to open a restaurant in Sedona in 1993, the company faced a challenge. City officials feared the brand’s bright yellow arches would clash with the desert scenery and diminish the peaceful views. They made a firm request: the arches could not be yellow.
A Turquoise Solution
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