LPC approves simplified brownstone surround for altered Chelsea mansion at 333 West 20th Street

The Landmarks Preservation Commission on March 11 approved an application to replace the entrance surround and front door at 333 West 20th Street in the Chelsea Historic District Extension.

Architect William Morehead, representing the applicant, said the building—originally a mansion dating to 1836—has had nearly all historic detail removed and the proposed surround is a simplified, non-imitative design intended to recall Greek Revival elements. "We took the tact of just doing something with a simplified version with a few details that are reminiscent, but not trying to be historic," Morehead said. He told the commission the proposed surround would be cast stone (brownstone precast) and the replacement door would be a painted mahogany unit.

Manhattan Community Board 4 recommended approval. Commissioners noted the building’s facade has been stripped and that the simplified cast-stone surround and paneled door would be visually compatible; one commissioner flagged a minor hardware accessibility item (use of a lever rather than a knob) and the applicant acknowledged there are approximately 14 residential units in the building.

Commissioner Goldblum presented approval findings that the mansion has been stripped of historic details, that the proposed surround will recall simplified Greek Revival detail without restoring a false historic condition, and that the proposed materials and door type are appropriate to the building and district. Commissioner Chen seconded the motion. The roll call vote recorded six in favor and none opposed; the motion passed.

The approval allows the applicant to replace the front door surround and install the proposed door and cast-stone surround under LPC permit procedures.