In a recent meeting, the Landmarks Preservation Commission reviewed a proposal for significant alterations to 53 East 77th Street, a building located in the Upper East Side Historic District. Originally designed in 1901 by architect Henry Rutgers Marshall in a Beaux Arts style, the residence underwent modifications in the late 1920s, transforming it into a modified Neo Spanish Renaissance style under architect Pleasants Pennington.

The current proposal aims to restore the building's primary and secondary facades to their original 1901 appearance, which includes the removal of later alterations that detracted from its historical integrity. The project also seeks to expand the rooftop addition and construct a rear yard addition, maintaining the building's use as a commercial gallery.

Ward Dennis, representing the project, emphasized the importance of returning the building to its original design, highlighting that approximately 60% of the existing brickwork is original to the 1901 structure. The proposal includes recladding the penthouse to match the original brick and restoring the limestone detailing that was removed during the 1920s renovation.

The commission discussed the historical significance of the building and its evolution over time, noting that it was initially a standalone mansion before becoming part of a more densely developed block. The meeting included a review of historical photographs and maps that illustrated the building's architectural journey and the surrounding area's transformation.

The commission's decision on the proposal will consider the building's historical context and the appropriateness of the proposed changes, which aim to enhance the architectural character of the Upper East Side Historic District while preserving its rich history.