FRIENDS' Testimony:

FRIENDS of the Upper East Side’s Preservation Committee fears that the dimensions and permanence of this pergola structure would be far more visually impactful than the existing retractable awning. The appearance of this addition is stark and would not blend seamlessly either with this striking Art Deco apartment building designed by Rosario Candela or the various adjacent rooftop accretions. Operable canvas awnings, such as those currently installed at this unit, are a common solution for shading terraces within the Upper East Side Historic District, and FRIENDS feels that this rigid and industrial-looking zinc canopy is inappropriate due to the visibility from both Park and Madison Avenues. FRIENDS does not support the canopy design. However, we are understanding of code requirements and do support the chimney extension, should it remain necessary.