Commission denies legalization of removed SoHo vault lights, citing loss of historic feature

The Land Preservation Commission on Dec. 9 denied an application to legalize diamond-plate cladding over historic cast-iron vault lights at a SoHo cast-iron district property, finding the removal of the vault lights without in-kind replacement caused loss of a significant architectural feature.

Adam Cohen of Aetna Consulting described the site conditions and explained that previously exposed vault lights were severely damaged and that temporary diamond plate steps had been installed to avoid leaving holes in the sidewalk; the applicant sought legalization of that cladding. Cohen said replacement cast-iron and glass vault units were available but that lead times and costs were high.

Preservation groups urged the commission to require in-kind repair. Madhur (Manur) Fatima of the Historic Districts Council said replacement vault lights are commercially available and urged repair or replacement in kind because vault lights are a trademark feature of SoHo. Christina Conroy of the Victorian Society said removal without a permit made it difficult to assess salvageability and noted the commission rarely approves removal of vault lights.

Commissioners discussed whether some vault lights had been covered prior to district designation and whether exposed pieces could be salvaged and reinstalled. Staff clarified cases where vault lights had been historically covered versus exposed at designation.

The commission concluded that removal of cast-iron vault lights at both bays without replacing any in kind amounted to the loss of a significant architectural feature and voted to deny the application (motion passed by recorded vote). Commissioners tasked staff to verify which elements, if any, could be reinstated and to pursue replacement in kind where feasible.