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Commission approves reconstruction of rooftop bulkheads and modified balustrades at Fifth Avenue mansion; staff to refine color and railing details
Summary
The Landmarks Preservation Commission approved reconstruction of rooftop bulkheads and modification of balustrades at a Fifth Avenue mansion across from the Metropolitan Museum, while asking the applicant to simplify some details and preserve salvaged copper elements.
The Landmarks Preservation Commission approved reconstruction of rooftop bulkheads and related balustrade modifications at a Fifth Avenue mansion opposite the Metropolitan Museum of Art on Aug. 12, subject to staff review of color and simplified detailing. Christina Redmond, representing the exterior restoration team, described demolition of deteriorated bulkhead structures on the building’s east and west roof areas, retention and exposure of an original brick‑and‑limestone chimney, relocation of an interior stair run and a slightly larger elevator bulkhead on the west to provide accessible elevator dimensions, and new louvers enclosing rooftop mechanicals. The proposed cladding is a light beige‑tinted stucco for the bulkhead enclosures and powder‑coated stainless steel guardrails with slender posts and perforated infill panels intended to read as very light, veil‑like elements. Preservation groups raised concerns about visibility from East 80th Street and urged minimizing visual impact and preserving historic copper balustrade elements. Friends of the Upper East Side and the Historic Districts Council recommended salvaging and reusing copper balustrade pieces rather than discarding them; the applicant confirmed the two copper balustrade components removed to accommodate a new catwalk will be salvaged and reinstalled nearby where feasible. Commissioners asked the applicant to work with staff on simplifying details (refining the elevator bulkhead cornice/overhang and light fixtures) and on the exact color to ensure the new work recedes against the taller background buildings. Staff reported on‑site mockups and noted only small portions of the new bulkheads will be visible above the mansard roof from distant viewpoints. The motion to approve included the requirement that final colors and simplified details be reviewed by staff; the commission vote was unanimous as recorded.
