Building Name
3 East 78th Street
Architect
C.P.H. Gilbert
Year(s) Built
1897-99
Designation
Metropolitan Museum Historic District
Project Information:
A neo-French Renaissance style town house designed by C. P. H. Gilbert and built in 1897-99. Application is to modify a window opening.
CB8 Hearing: 10/17/22 (Disapproved)
LPC Hearing: 10/25/22 (Approved with modifications)
Other projects:
June 3, 2014
FRIENDS' Testimony:
Designed by one of the most prominent architects at the turn of the century, this fine François I style townhouse has remained mostly intact since its construction. We do not oppose the addition of the bronze handrail, we are concerned, however, with its attachment and would ask the applicant to study alternative methods of installation that do not perforate the masonry.
The proposal to remove the central limestone mullion of the fifth-floor window is not appropriate and would significantly detract from this building’s character. Additionally, the architect’s assumption that the lack of visibility from the public thoroughfare gives them carte blanche to remove significant architectural features is worrisome.
We sympathize with the resident’s desire for outdoor access, and FRIENDS does not take issue with a change of functionality of this opening. However, we ask the applicant to come up with a proposal that respects the building’s original historic fabric and maintains the central mullion of this window.