LPC-26-08308
680 Madison Avenue – Upper East Side Historic District
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS
A neo-Georgian style apartment building designed by K. B. Norton and built in 1950-51. Application is to modify masonry openings and establish a master plan governing the installation of storefront infill, signage, and windows.
Architect: design republic
The Historic Districts Council finds this proposal inappropriate, as it would significantly compromise the building’s carefully balanced composition.
HDC objects to the proposed enlargement of the ground-floor masonry openings; the existing storefront level provides a strong, substantial base, and increasing the amount of glazing would erode that effect. Similarly, the second- and third-floor windows are integral to the building’s overall design and we do not find the proposed interventions to be necessary or appropriate. Any work should instead take a more restorative approach.
We also questioned the necessity of removing the existing awnings, and find that the introduction of pin-mounted signage introduces visual clutter to the façade.
Action: No action.
LPC-26-03445
37 Harrison Street – 37 Harrison Street House (William B. Nichols House) – Individual Landmark
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS
A Federal style townhouse built c. 1828. Application is to install fences, trellises, and gates at the shared rear yard.
Architect: Hansen Architecture + Design
The Historic Districts Council does not object to the design of the proposed fence and gate in aesthetic terms. However, we are concerned that the gate, even if unlocked, interrupts the public easement. If this passage is indeed intended to remain publicly accessible, it should continue to read as such and not be visually or physically discouraged by a closed gate.
HDC therefore suggests that the applicant consider omitting the gate while retaining the rest of the fencing treatment, so that the passage remains clearly open and legible as a public right-of-way.
Action: Approved.
LPC-26-06015
739 Washington Street – Greenwich Village Historic District
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS
A Greek Revival style rowhouse built in 1845. Application is to construct rooftop and rear yard additions and excavate the rear yard.
Architect: M. Ziemke Architecture
The Historic Districts Council is primarily concerned that the rooftop addition is too visible from surrounding streets, especially Bank Street, and asks if the applicant can pursue refinements to decrease its visibility.
Action: Approved, work with staff to decrease visibility of rooftop addition.
LPC-26-06324
3 Riverside Drive – The Kleeberg Residence – Individual Landmark – West End – Collegiate Historic District Extension
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS
A French Renaissance Revival style townhouse designed by C.P.H. Gilbert and built in 1896-98. Application is to construct a rooftop addition, alter the areaway, and replace windows.
Architect: O’Neil Langan Architects
The Historic Districts Council finds the proposed areaway alterations and window replacement appropriate, but remains concerned about the visibility of the rooftop addition, particularly the guardrail and elevator bulkhead. As always, accessibility is paramount to HDC when reviewing applications, but asks if any adjustments can be made to the rooftop elements to further minimize visibility while still providing full access.
Action: No action.
