LPC-26-11316
558 Grand Concourse – Bronx Post Office – Individual and Interior Landmark
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS
A Modern Classical style government building with designated interior lobby, designed by Thomas Harlan Ellett and built in 1935-1937, with murals by Ben Shahn and Bernarda Bryson added in 1938-39. Application is to install an interior vestibule, turnstiles, furniture, partitions, and power connections, install interior and exterior cameras, install rooftop mechanical equipment and screening, and replace ground floor infill.
The Historic Districts Council is pleased to see this remarkable landmark entering a new chapter through its reuse by Hostos Community College. Overall, we find the proposal generally appropriate and support the continued public use of this significant building.
We do, however, believe the proposed vestibule could more closely reflect the light, transparent character of the historic vestibule, whose minimal framing better complements the building’s Modern Classical design.
In addition, as with all interior landmarks, public access is paramount. In the proposed layout, a significant portion of the designated lobby would be located within a secured area that is inaccessible to the general public, limiting visitors’ ability to fully experience this remarkable interior and its celebrated Ben Shahn and Bernarda Bryson murals. We encourage the applicant to explore ways to reduce the extent of the restricted area, while also protecting these irreplaceable artworks through minimally intrusive measures, such as clear protective glazing, where appropriate.
Action: Approved with modifications. Work with staff on lightness, detailing, and materiality of vestibule; explore turnstile placement location.
LPC-26-11279
Prospect Park – Peter Lefferts House Site – Scenic Landmark
ADVISORY REPORT
An 18th century Dutch Colonial farmhouse, built between 1777 and 1783 and moved to its current location in 1918, within a primarily naturalistic style park designed in 1866-73 by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux. Application is to modify and construct paths associated with the house, install paving, construct landscape features and a shed, and install signage and site furniture.
The Historic Districts Council supports the effort to reinterpret the history of the Peter Lefferts House and present a more complete and inclusive account of the people who lived and labored here. We commend the applicant for recognizing that the site’s history extends well beyond the Lefferts family and for seeking to engage visitors with these important stories.
We do, however, encourage the applicant to better unify the various landscape interventions through a more cohesive design language. As proposed, the assortment of paving, signage, furnishings, and interpretive elements feels somewhat disjointed. A more consistent approach to the design and placement of these features would create a clearer visitor experience while better preserving the overall naturalistic character of this scenic landmark and the relation of the exhibitions to the individual landmark.
Action: Approved.
LPC-26-09973
Kimlau Square, Chatham Square – Kimlau War Memorial – Individual Landmark Manhattan
ADVISORY REPORT
A Streamlined Traditional Chinese style war memorial designed by Poy Gum Lee and built in 1962. Application is to relocate the monument and flanking benches.
It is our understanding that the current orientation of the Lin Zexu statue carries symbolic significance–facing east along East Broadway, the statue’s posture conveys vigilance and protection over the Chinatown community. Its placement establishes a meaningful visual and symbolic relationship with East Broadway and the heart of Chinatown.
Relocating the statue across the Bowery could interrupt this relationship. To avoid undermining the significance of the statue’s orientation, HDC defers to the Chinatown community, whose longstanding connection to this site makes them best positioned to determine how the monument should be situated within the redesigned plaza. Any planning process concerning the statue’s placement should include robust community engagement before its location is finalized.
Action: Approved.
LPC-26-07932
11 East 76th Street – Upper East Side Historic District
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS
A neo-Renaissance style rowhouse designed by Alexander M. Welch and built in 1895-96. Application is to construct rooftop and rear yard additions, alter the rear façade, and remove a special window.
The Historic Districts Council finds the proposed rooftop and rear yard additions generally appropriate. However, we are concerned that the proposed ironwork and Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired lanterns proposed for the front entryway are not in keeping with the building’s architectural character. In addition, we object to the removal of the special rear window.
Action: Approved.