LPC-26-09457
265 Cumberland Street – Fort Greene Historic District
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS
A residential building built in 2003. Application is to reclad and alter the façade and construct a rooftop addition.
The Historic Districts Council commends this application. The proposed recladding and alterations are a significant improvement to the existing structure. We appreciate the applicant’s effort to introduce a more contextual architectural vocabulary, including a redesigned façade composition and arched entrance that better relates to the historic character of the surrounding neighborhood. These changes will result in a more harmonious streetscape presence and an overall improvement to the historic district.
Action: Approved.
LPC-26-10263
1 Hanson Place – Williamsburgh Savings Bank (Hanson Place) – Individual and Interior Landmark
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS
A neo-Romanesque style commercial skyscraper with a designated Romanesque Revival style interior ground-floor banking hall and basement space, designed by Halsey, McCormack & Helmer and built in 1927-1929. Application is to install a mezzanine, built-in features and kiosks and alter historic features within the designated interior spaces, and install exterior signage and HVAC louvers.
The Historic Districts Council opposes this proposal.
The Williamsburgh Savings Bank is one of New York City’s most significant landmark interiors, distinguished by its extraordinary volume, rich materials, decorative artwork, and remarkable level of craftsmanship. Rather than allowing these features to remain the defining elements of the space, the proposal introduces an extensive amount of new construction that would substantially diminish and obscure the historic interior. We are also concerned about the removal or displacement of historic furnishings and decorative elements, and ask that more of these be retained.
The proposed mezzanine is our biggest concern. By inserting a new floor level into a space that was intentionally designed as a grand, uninterrupted banking hall, the proposal compromises one of the building’s most important architectural qualities. The mezzanine, together with the numerous kiosks, built-in structures, and freestanding interventions, would fragment the space and obstruct views of significant historic features.
HDC urges the Commission to require a significantly more restrained approach that preserves the openness, visibility, and integrity of this extraordinary space.
Action: No action. Work on reducing visibility of mezzanine and floorplan.
LPC-26-10512
144 Spring Street – SoHo-Cast Iron Historic District
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS
A vacant lot. Application is to construct a new building.
The Historic Districts Council largely supports this project. We appreciate the effort to design a contextual infill building for this long-vacant site. The building’s rhythm, texture, and overall composition suggest a thoughtful engagement with the architectural character of SoHo.
HDC does have some concern regarding the proposed use of precast concrete as the primary façade material, as the success of the design depends heavily on the quality and execution of its ornamental detailing. We encourage careful review of the proposed material, finish, and detailing with LPC staff to ensure that the building achieves the level of richness and durability appropriate for this historic district.
Action: No action.
LPC-26-05686
125 East 64th Street – Upper East Side Historic District
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS
A Neo-Grec style rowhouse designed by John McCool and built in 1876-77 and altered in 1924. Application is to replace windows.
The Historic Districts Council has some concern regarding the proportions of the proposed windows. As currently designed, the sash configuration creates relatively square panes that do not relate well to the existing openings or the overall composition of the façade. We encourage the applicant to explore alternatives that emphasize more vertically proportioned lights, such as a two-over-four double-hung or a two-over-four fixed-over-casement configuration. A design with taller, narrower panes would better reflect the proportions of the existing windows and result in a more appropriate façade composition.
Action: Approved.