Garment Center history was the focus of a May 21 Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) public hearing. Conservancy testimony supported designating five buildings as individual landmarks. The LPC is evaluating Midtown South as the City Planning Commission proposes to rezone this area and encourage new development. We’ve spoken out on concerns that the rezoning will create extreme development pressure on historic buildings. We have asked the LPC to consider designating more landmarks in addition to the five under consideration.
The Barbey Building (15 West 38th Street), Fashion Tower (135 West 36th Street), Furcraft Building (242-246 West 30th Street), 29th Street Towers (214 and 224 West 29th Street), and the Lefcourt Clothing Center (275 Seventh Avenue) represent significant moments in the history of the Garment Center. They remind us of the era when New York led the world in garment design and manufacturing, and how the Garment Center created not only jobs but a distinct culture and eco-system for this industry.
The architecture represents the era well. All are masonry-clad towers, with distinct and delightful ornament, that occasionally makes a direct connection to the Garment trade. Designed by notable architects, they were purpose-built, with loft spaces for showrooms, studios, manufacturing, and office use. The historic height, setback massing, masonry facades, fenestration, and ornament of the five buildings are largely intact, with some alterations, especially at the storefronts.
These buildings are key to Garment Center history. We appreciate that the Commission has brought them forward and look forward to a vote on their designation. We will be testifying on the rezoning when it’s heard at the City Council later this summer.
