<< Back

print

Landmarks

January 2010, Landmarks Committee

26 West 17th Street, façade and storefront renovations

WHEREAS, 26 West 17th Street is a 12-story 108,025 sq. ft. Beaux Arts store and commercial loft building located in the Ladies Mile Historic District, designed by the architect, William C. Frohne, constructed in 1907-08; and      

WHEREAS, The owner, the Winter Organization, has applied to NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission for a Certificate of Appropriateness for facade and storefront renovations including:

• Removal and replacement of doors and transoms at the street level office tower entry, retail entrance in the center of the building and the freight entrance at the westerly side of the building
• Replacement of the decaying wooden "knee wall" or bulkhead with more durable painted aluminum
• Insulated glass windows and mullions throughout
• Two period-style light fixtures above the office entry doors
• No signage other than interior signage painted on glass; and

WHEREAS, The applicant will present designs for both a single and double door entry for the recessed central retail portion of the ground floor, depending on whether the premises is leased to one or two tenants, with the understanding that the alternative entry configuration would be installed if the tenancy changes; and

WHEREAS, The applicant was unable to present historical or tax photos showing the original historical facade appearance nor samples of the original paint; and

WHEREAS, The specifications and paint samples provided to Community Board Five are deemed to be consonant with other buildings in the Historic District; and

WHEREAS, Community Board Five is concerned that a more consistent design for the three entry doorways be achieved, but recognizes that the design presented is generally acceptable, if not ideal; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, Community Board Five recommends approval of the application for facade and storefront renovations at 26 West 17th Street in the Ladies Mile Historic District in accordance with the plans and specifications presented by the building's architect to Community Board Five.