The Historic Districts Council (HDC) reviews every public proposal affecting New York City’s landmarks and historic districts and provides testimony to the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) whenever it is needed.
Please continue reading for our testimony regarding the latest items under consideration by the Commission. We invite you to visit the HDC@LPC blog for an archive containing all of our past testimony.
PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19, the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) is adjusting its processes and procedures to ensure the agency continues to provide services to the city while protecting the health of its employees and the general public. The agency is currently holding public hearings and meetings through Zoom, and live-streaming them through its YouTube channel. This enables applicants to present their projects to the Commission and the public to watch the presentations live on YouTube. Interested members of the public will also be able to provide live testimony by joining in through the Zoom app or by calling from any telephone. For information regarding online public participation, visit the LPC’s website here.
Item 1
401 Greenwich Street – Tribeca West Historic District
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS, Docket # 21-04396
A commercial building designed by Gertler and Wente, Architects and built in 2001. Application is to alter the façade and install signage.
Architect: Riscala Agnese
The proposed changes are appropriate save for the installation of the architectural trim framing on the building’s façade. This trim will cover over much brick work, which should be left legible.
LPC determination: Approved with modifications
Commissioner Lutfy and others agreed with HDC’s testimony to work with staff on the perimeter finish and the application was approved with that modification.
Item 3
1260-1270 Avenue of the Americas – Rockefeller Center – Individual and Interior Landmark
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS, Docket # 21-06165
A theater and office building designed by the Associated Architects with Donald Desky and a group of fine artists, and constructed in 1931-32 as part of an Art Deco style office, commercial and entertainment complex. Application is to install a skybridge.
Architect: Architecture Interiors Planning
There is both historic and current precedent for rooftop use within the Rockefeller Center complex and the proposed skybridge makes more roof access possible. The insertion of the bridge within existing masonry openings is sensitive and this application is totally appropriate.
LPC determination: Approved
Commissioner Chapin stated, “HDC which was right on the mark. This is a wonderful project for the city.” The application was unanimously supported and approved as presented.
Item 4
45 West 85th Street – Upper West Side/Central Park West Historic District
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS, Docket # 21-03963
A Beaux-Arts style rowhouse designed by Lafayette A. Goldstone and built in 1906-07. Application is to replace a window.
Architect: None listed
Applications to remove stained glass windows are often presented to the Landmarks Commission but are usually submitted with a strategy for their relocation. Here, there is no evident plan to reincorporate what appears to be an opalescent streaky glass window somewhere in the property. Our committee does not agree that this lovely original feature should be discarded.
LPC determination: Approved
Commissioner Shamir-Baron opened the discussion by stating that, “Since it is not visible from any view, and there is an offer to store it for future use, it can be removed.” Commissioners agreed and the application was approved as presented.