FRIENDS' Testimony:

FRIENDS found many positive aspects of the proposal for 575 Park Avenue. The changes to the canopy and awning and the reintroduction of bronze supports are an improvement to the existing conditions; as are the new bronze menu boxes. The relocation of the lighting and the removal of visible electrical conduits will further enhance the entrance. We do question the choice of lighting fixtures, however, and request that the applicant select a fixture more appropriate for this building.

Additionally, the applicant has wisely chosen to select bronze finishes for a number of their proposed changes, reflecting the material found on other parts of the building. We applaud this choice, but wish that it was further reflected in the proposed doors. While we took no issue with the return to single-light doors, a bronze doorframe is more appropriate than painted wood, especially when considering all the other entrances to the building are bronze.

The Preservation Committee at FRIENDS asks the Commission to work with the applicant to make these changes to an otherwise agreeable application.