Downtown, like Near Southside, has I think, two layers of review. There is a review group (dont know the name), and then the DDRB as the final approval.
I think the first group often influences the projects by review and suggestions, often early in the process, which seems like a great service. This should help projects from going too far in their design before knowing if they are on the right track or not.
I don't know what happens if the developer chooses to fight the design review - whether they can somehow force designs that are neither group likes. I expect it would be difficult.
I agree with parts of what John and PeopleAreStrange said. The lower floors look, from that angle, like they could be improved.
There seem to be a lot of blank walls.
Even thought this site is not currently a place with high pedestrian traffic, that doesn't mean it shouldn't be designed as though pedestrians aren't important. If every new building is designed to be highly pedestrian friendly, it will MAKE these streets more attractive and will attract a lot more pedestrian traffic.