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Landmarks approves new entrance infill and subtle facade lighting at 20 Exchange Place
Summary
The commission approved replacement of inboard Exchange Place entry doors with sliding systems and the addition of low‑profile accent lighting at 20 Exchange Place, with staff to finalize metal finishes and lighting details; vote 9–0.
The Landmarks Preservation Commission approved an application on April 8 to replace non‑historic revolving doors at an inboard entrance of the Citibank Farmers Trust Company Building (20 Exchange Place) with new sliding door assemblies and to install low‑profile concealed accent lighting at the William/Exchange corner. Commissioners emphasized careful matching of metal finishes and refinement of the light housing to avoid appearing as a conspicuous modern band across the historic facade.
Architect John Gabriel Newcomb presented the proposal, which calls for two sets of sliding doors recessed in the existing entrance surround, a curved glass return that modestly projects into the recess, and metalwork intended to recall the original nickel‑silver finish found elsewhere on the building. Newcomb said the intent is to create a more accessible, clear entry for hundreds of residential tenants while using a subdued contemporary expression. The proposal also introduces narrow concealed, linear lighting mounted on a shallow metal band at an area where historic signage previously existed; the design team emphasized that the band would be low profile and painted to match surrounding metalwork and that the LEDs would be subtle.
Commissioners praised the careful, restrained approach but asked the applicant to refine the band depth and to coordinate final metal finish samples with staff. Commissioner Goldblum recommended reducing the band profile where possible and mocked‑up samples for staff review; Commissioner Chiu asked the applicant to work with staff to ensure the lighting reads as a separate, contemporary element and not as a historic replacement. The motion to approve included a condition that the applicant finalize the finish and lighting details with staff; the vote was unanimous among voting commissioners. The Commission noted that the work will not detract from the landmark’s historic character when the final materials are matched.
