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Proposed 19‑story tower at 375 Lafayette divides NoHo: supporters cite housing need, opponents decry scale
Summary
A proposed as‑of‑right 19‑story residential project at 375 Lafayette (approx. 200 units, including 25% affordable) drew intense public comment: community boards and preservation groups said the scale is out of character with NoHo, while labor and housing advocates urged approval to deliver affordable homes and union jobs. The commission closed the hearing and asked the applicant to consider public input and return.
A high‑profile, as‑of‑right two‑building residential proposal for 375 Lafayette Street generated one of the meeting’s longest and most divisive hearings, with dozens of live and remote speakers urging opposite outcomes.
The developer presented a terracotta‑clad composition that emphasizes a stepped street wall and modular 25‑foot vertical bays; the project team said the scheme fits within the rezoning envelope and would deliver about 200 residential units with roughly 25% set as permanently affordable in project materials. Opponents — including Manhattan Community Board 2, Village Preservation, the Victorian Society and many nearby residents — argued the 19‑story height and long, repetitive facade would overwhelm Great Jones and nearby individual landmarks, asking for reduced bulk, stronger cornices, and more facade variety. Supporters, including labor groups and housing advocates, said the underutilized parking lot should become housing now. Commissioners closed the hearing and asked the applicant to return with revisions responsive to the comments.
