HDC Testifies to Modify Proposed Changes to Landmark Cunard Building, 25 Broadway, Manhattan
The Cunard Building’s interior, designed by architect Benjamin Wistar Morris and decorated by gifted artists Ezra Winter, Barry Faulkner, C. Paul Jennewein, John Gregory and Samuel Yellin is one of the most beautiful interiors of New York City.
HDC is opposed to the large rings of lights proposed for under the domes as we fear they will interfere with views of the ceiling. Discreet cove up lighting could be used to illuminate the ceiling, and other equally thoughtful, less obtrusive lights should be found to light the rest of the space. Not everything in this interior needs to be lit evenly. It is not something the designers intended or even considered in 1917. The play of dark and light adds depth, interest and mystery to this exquisite space.
We also find the introduction of carpet into this space inappropriate and hope that is being considered as a temporary answer to the present problems with the flooring. The 1995 designation report, while listing other alterations, does not mention damage or concrete additions to the floor. Rather, the report calls out that “the decorative program and high craftsmanship of the ceiling is continued onto the other surfaces of the Great Hall” and goes on to describe the floor of travertine trimmed in bands of marble and marble mosaics. The carpet is an unusual intrusion into a space devoid of fabric where the focus is on stone and metal. The floor is part of the cohesive design of this landmarked interior and should be treated with as much consideration as the rest of the interior.
HDC is also concerned about the mention of moving the original travertine ticket desks to a nonlandmarked part of the building. We are wary of cannibalizing a landmarked interior and moving historic fabric elsewhere.