Manhattan building battles graffiti with innovative restoration plan

In a recent meeting of the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC), a proposal to address persistent graffiti issues on a commercial building located at 83 West Houston Street in Manhattan's Soho Cast Iron Historic District was discussed. The building, designed by Beyer Blinder Belle and completed in 1982, has faced ongoing challenges with graffiti since its inception, prompting the owners to seek a more sustainable solution.

Bob Esnard, representing the building's owners, outlined the history of the property and the ongoing struggle against graffiti, which has plagued the facade for nearly four decades. The owners have previously attempted various methods of graffiti removal, but the repeated cleaning has caused significant damage to the masonry. In response to LPC staff recommendations, the owners engaged Jablonski Building Conservation, Inc. to explore alternative solutions.

Helen Thomas Haney from Jablonski presented a comprehensive plan that includes removing existing graffiti and overpainting the masonry with breathable, water-based latex paints that match the building's original colors. This approach aims to minimize further damage to the facade while allowing for easier maintenance. The plan also includes periodic professional cleaning and repainting as needed, which the LPC commissioners found to be a reasonable and effective strategy.

During the discussion, several commissioners expressed support for the proposal, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the building's aesthetic integrity while addressing the graffiti issue. They noted that the proposed method would not only preserve the building's appearance but also provide a practical solution to a common urban problem.

The LPC ultimately voted in favor of the proposal, with the condition that the painting be limited to the first floor, where graffiti is most prevalent. The commission's approval reflects a balance between preserving the historic character of the district and addressing the practical challenges faced by property owners in maintaining their buildings.

The meeting also included a separate discussion regarding a proposed rooftop addition and rear yard extension for a Greek Revival style rowhouse at 44 Jane Street in the Greenwich Village Historic District. The LPC reviewed the design, which aims to reconstruct the existing rear yard extension while adding a rooftop structure that would be visible from public streets. Concerns were raised about the height and visibility of the proposed addition, with several commissioners suggesting modifications to reduce its prominence.

Community feedback highlighted the need for a more transparent design that aligns with the historic character of the district. The LPC ultimately recommended approval of the rear yard extension while urging the applicant to revisit the rooftop design to lessen its visibility.

These discussions underscore the LPC's ongoing commitment to preserving New York City's architectural heritage while accommodating the evolving needs of its neighborhoods.