Morris Adjmi design wins praise from Commissioners. On September 9, 2008, Landmarks heard testimony on three applications for certificates of appropriateness with respect to adjacent properties at 414-422 Greenwich Street and 401-411 Washington Street in the Tribeca North Historic District. The applications propose the demolition of a 1956 garage, the construction of a new six-story building with a penthouse, and a penthouse addition to an existing 1906 loft building adjacent to the garage.

Architectural historian Bill Higgins testified on behalf of the owner that the 1906 Neo-Renaissance loft building had been built as a storehouse for coffee and tea. Higgins noted that the original terra cotta detailing had suffered significant water damage and would be restored as part of the development. Additionally, the brick facade would be cleaned, and eroded mortar joints repaired. As for the garage, Higgins testified that it was the last building constructed in the district before designation, and did not contribute to the district’s character. (more…)