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Landmarks panel approves rear-yard addition on Upper West Side, asks staff to refine rooftop material
Summary
The Landmarks Preservation Commission on May 6 approved a four‑story rear‑yard addition at 167 West 80th Street in the Upper West Side/Central Park West Historic District, while asking the applicant to work further with staff on the top‑floor material and color.
The Landmarks Preservation Commission on May 6 voted to approve an application (LPC 25‑01278) to construct a four‑story rear‑yard addition at 167 West 80th Street in the Upper West Side/Central Park West Historic District, finding the work would not damage significant architectural features and would not be visible from a public thoroughfare, but directed the applicant to work with staff on finish material and color for the setback top floor.
What the commission approved: The applicant proposed a rear addition built above an existing rear elevation, with revised fenestration to align upper lintel heights with adjacent buildings and a set‑back top floor to reduce massing. Staff noted the applicants revised window transoms to raise window heights and added a setback and different material at the fourth floor to read as independent from the existing rowhouse forms.
Why the commission required follow-up: Several commissioners said they supported the setback and altered massing, but raised concerns about the painted aluminum panel proposed for the top floor. Commissioners and preservation staff said the block contains an earlier approval using a similar treatment and color, but many asked the applicant either to propose an alternate material (for example brick or standing‑seam metal in a recessive color) or to work with LPC staff to refine the material and details to ensure the top floor reads as a secondary element.
Applicant response and public input: Preservation consultant Jackie Puduvalen said the owner would be open to other materials and that the current design followed a precedent previously approved in the block. The Historic Districts Council and Landmark West submitted letters supporting the project; HDC urged simplified detailing and said the addition could be more deferential to the main façade.
Formal action: The commission moved to approve with modifications that require the applicant to consult LPC staff on material and color; Vice Chair Bland seconded. The roll call recorded eight votes in favor and none opposed. The staff report recommending approval noted the addition would not be visible from public street vistas and would be consistent in depth and height with other rear yard additions in the block.
Bottom line: LPC approved the addition’s massing and fenestration revisions but required further study of the top floor’s cladding and color prior to final sign-off.
