Building Name
857 Fifth Avenue
Architect
Robert L. Bien
Year(s) Built
1961-63
Designation
Upper East Side Historic District
Project Information:
An apartment building designed by Robert L. Bien and built in 1961-1963. Application is to reclad the base of the building.
CB8 Hearing: 07/15/24 (Approved)
LPC Hearing: 08/14/24 (Approved)
FRIENDS' Testimony:
FRIENDS Preservation Committee does not object to the replacement of the red granite façade with limestone since it aligns with the lighter color palette identified in a 1965 City record of this building. However, we question whether the texture and scale of the original white brick, or a contemporary material replicating its aesthetic, would be a more suitable choice for the building's 1960s design. We also concur with the Historic Districts Council that if the use of color was important to the architect's vision, the applicants should consider restoring the wavy piers to their original pink, thus preserving some color on the facade.