Window Replacement Sparks Heated Debate Over Historic Integrity

In a recent government meeting, discussions centered around a proposed window replacement for a Greek Revival-style building located at the intersection of Pierpont Street and Monroe Place. The homeowner, who recently acquired the property, seeks to maintain the existing 1 over 1 window configuration, which has been in place for over 80 years, rather than reverting to the presumed original 6 over 6 style.

The proposal was presented alongside a site plan and historical tax photographs, highlighting the building's standalone status and its non-affiliation with a historic row. The homeowner emphasized the desire to preserve the view of significant landmarks, including the Supreme Court and a historic church across the street.

Commissioners raised questions regarding the appropriateness of the 1 over 1 configuration, noting that the rules typically require window replacements to match the historic style. The discussion revealed a split in opinions among the commissioners, with some acknowledging the long-standing presence of 1 over 1 windows in the area, suggesting they may have become a historic window type for this particular house.

Public testimony included support from the Brooklyn Heights Association, which noted the prevalence of 1 over 1 windows in nearby Greek Revival row houses, arguing that retaining this configuration would not disrupt the architectural harmony of the neighborhood. However, some members expressed concerns that the longevity of the 1 over 1 style did not justify its preservation over the original design.

Additional testimony from representatives of the Historic Districts Council and the Victorian Society in New York advocated for a return to multi-pane windows, arguing that such designs would better respect the building's stylistic integrity. They emphasized the importance of maintaining the historical character of the facade, suggesting that further research could determine the most appropriate window style.

The meeting concluded without a definitive resolution, as the commission deliberated on the merits of the proposal and the implications of adopting a case-by-case approach to window replacements in historic districts.