Local residents are voicing concerns over a proposed rooftop addition to a notable mid-century modern townhouse located at 48 Willow Place in Brooklyn Heights. The application for this addition is scheduled for discussion during the Community Board 2 meeting on November 5, 2024, with a follow-up hearing by the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) set for November 25, 2024.
Designed by architects Joseph and Mary Merz, the townhouse is one of only three of its kind within the Brooklyn Heights Historic District. Following the passing of the Merz couple, the property changed ownership twice, most recently in 2024. The previous owner, prominent architect Ian Starling, completed sympathetic renovations to modernize the residence while maintaining its original character.
The proposed rooftop addition, which includes a terrace, has drawn objections due to its visible impact on the building’s façade. Application documents indicate that the addition would alter the carefully crafted modern and abstract design that characterizes the townhouse. Each of the three Merz-designed properties features facades that reference traditional townhouse elements, incorporating a central arrangement of three vertically stacked openings that evoke columns.
At the Merz residence, the front door showcases sidelights that reflect Greek Revival designs, while the shapes of the openings mirror traditional townhouse windows. Notably, a small chimney above the front parapet is not visible from the street in the “before” renderings. Similarly, a rooftop structure depicted in renderings for the adjacent 40 Willow Place also does not appear to be visible from the street.
Concerns regarding visible rooftop additions are not new. Over two decades ago, the owner of 40 Willow Place sought to build a similar feature. The LPC ruled that such additions compromising the unique sculptural design of the buildings must not be visible. A letter submitted to Community Board 2 regarding the current application emphasized that the same principles should guide decisions for 48 Willow Place, urging the LPC to reject any visible alterations that could diminish the integrity of this distinctive modernist ensemble.
Earlier this year, the new owner of 48 Willow Place secured permits from the Department of Buildings and the LPC to reframe the roof and install skylights in the upper story, as reported by Brownstoner. The chairs and secretary of Community Board 2 did not respond to a request for comment regarding the ongoing application.
As community members await the upcoming meetings, the future of this iconic mid-century modern townhouse hangs in the balance, reflecting broader discussions about preservation and modernization in historic districts.
