New York City’s Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) is set to review a proposal for modifications to 39 Sidney Place in Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn on March 4. The application, assembled by Tom Kowalski Architect Studio PC on behalf of owner 139 Sidney LLC, seeks approval for several exterior modifications to the historic building, which was originally built in 1846.
Proposed alterations include reconstructing a historically appropriate stoop, which was previously removed, in line with other neighboring buildings on Sidney Place. Additionally, the project plans to enlarge the parlor floor windows to improve natural light. The application references similar LPC-approved modifications on other properties within the district, supporting its case for approval.
Plans also detail façade work, including replacing existing windows with historically accurate aluminum-clad wood windows and applying a stucco finish to match the original design. Other structural modifications include updates to the entrance and bulkhead stair enclosures.
Transit near 39 Sidney Place includes subway stations served by the 2, 3, 4, 5, A, C, and F trains.
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The proposed window grids are not historically accurate.
David, yes, the mullions (what you are calling “grids”) are historically accurate. Look up the 1940s tax photo.
I believe what David was concerned with are the proportions – the panes of glass appear to be squares, not rectangles. Unfortunately, the remodeling of this facade was destructive in many ways, and this seems to have included reducing the heights of all the windows, forcing the designers into using windows where the panes of glass are not quite as tall as they should be. The alternative would be to recreate all the original window openings, which will be very expensive.
Some of the changes made to historic buildings leaves the modern observer thinking ‘What in heaven’s name were these idiots thinking?’