LPC approves rooftop bulkhead and authorizes flat sash with curved head moldings for curved bay windows at 228 Lenox Avenue

The Landmarks Preservation Commission on July 15 approved a rooftop stair bulkhead and authorized replacement windows for curved bay openings at 228 Lenox Avenue in the Mount Morris Park Historic District. Roberto Shriverto, LPC staff, described two parts of the application: replacement of windows installed without LPC permits in a curved bay (basement, first and second floors) and construction of a low rooftop stair bulkhead. Staff reported the owner is converting a former funeral home into a two-family house and that the proposed bulkhead is set back so it will not be directly visible over the front façade. The bulkhead will be finished in brownstone stucco and paired with a black metal railing. For the curved bay windows, applicants investigated options requested by the commission at the May hearing, including the possibility of single-glaze curved glass with a flat interior storm to preserve interior shutters and detailed woodwork. The applicant reported that installing single-pane curved glazing would require removal of interior historic woodwork and shutters and that the quoted cost for true bent glazing was substantially higher than conventional flat double-pane wood windows. The applicant therefore proposed 1-over-1 wood sash with flat glazing and bowed brick head moldings shaped to follow the bay curve; commissioners cited prior approvals for this approach on similar bents. Vice Chair Bland urged a pragmatic approach, noting that requiring curved glazing in all cases can be impractical and may remove owners’ ability to maintain their buildings. Commissioners agreed the proposed 1-over-1 wood windows with bowed brick moldings and the minimized, sloped bulkhead satisfied the district’s character and utility needs. Commissioner Bland made the motion to approve; Commissioner Wilder seconded. The motion carried with the commissioners present.