NEW YORK—Gene Kaufman Architect P.C. (GKA), which is leading the renovation of historic Hotel Chelsea, received unanimous approval from the Landmarks Preservation Commission of its plan to preserve and restore the hotel’s exterior.
"Working with the Landmarks Preservation Commission, we have a plan for the façade restoration that reflects the singular and storied history of this landmark hotel," said Kaufman, founder of GKA and principal of Gwathmey, Siegel, Kaufman & Associates.
The 12-story, redbrick Hotel Chelsea, originally designed by Hubert, Pirsson & Co., was the tallest building in New York City when it was opened in 1884. It was also one of the very first private residential cooperatives. After financial struggles for the co-op into bankruptcy it reopened as a hotel.
Currently 70 residents occupy the space. During renovations, residents will remain.
Plans for updates, which will keep with the building’s 1884 design, include restoring the upper façade of the hotel and restoring original window profiles and stained-glass transoms.
Ground-level retail storefronts will be returned to 1920s-era forms incorporating pre-existing design elements. The canopy and entryway will be brought back to their original character, and the famous “Hotel Chelsea” sign will be restored and preserved.
The interior elevators, fire stairs and pathways and building systems will be updated to comply with current code requirements.
The hotel’s rooms will be restored and renovated and signature rooms will be noted and available to guests.
