After an unusual show of unity between preservationists and landlord Vornado Realty Trust over the protection of 510 Fifth Avenue, we're not surprised that the Landmarks Preservation Commission got behind the landmarking of the building's interior. (The exterior is already protected.) Today, according to a press release from the LPC, the commission voted unanimously to landmark the interiors on the first and second floors. The move was sparked by the loss of the famed Harry Bertoia sculpture designed for the building, which moved out with former occupant JPMorgan Chase.
The bank's exterior was designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill under partner Gordon Bunshaft, but an outside consultant, Eleanor H. Le Maire, did the interior. A few of the highlights: a 30-ton circular stainless steel vault visible from the street, a recessed second floor that appears to be floating, and "luminous ceilings." Even if the Bertoia sculpture is languishing in a banker's basement, still sounds like a preservationist victory.
· 510 Fifth Avenue coverage [Curbed]
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