LPC Approves Alteration Project for the Martinique New York Hotel at 1260 Broadway in Midtown, Manhattan

By: Sebastian Morris 7:00 am on August 29, 2023

The Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) has approved a major renovation project at the historic Martinique New York Hotel at 1260 Broadway in the Koreatown section of Midtown, Manhattan. Led by Building Studio Architects and Burnett Equities, current owner of the hotel, the scope of work includes the installation of marquee signage, modern light fixtures, restoration of the building’s existing windows to historic conditions, and new entryways for retail tenants.

The 17-story building was completed in the early 1900s by architect Henry Hardenbergh and was designated an individual landmark in 1998. Prior to designation, the ground and second floors were modernized and retain little of the historic detail from Hardenbergh’s design.

Despite these changes, the building’s ornate exterior is still considered a Midtown jewel. The richly detailed façade incorporates limestone, granite, brick, terracotta, and cast metal ornamentation above the second floor. Below this level, many of the building’s most distinctive and architecturally significant features have been removed.

Historic photo of the Martinique New York Hotel

Rendering of the new Martinique New York Hotel facade and marquee signage – Rendering by StudioStasis3D

Rendering of the new Martinique New York Hotel facade and restaurant awnings – Rendering by StudioStasis3D

Rendering of the new Martinique New York Hotel facade – Rendering by StudioStasis3D

Restorative efforts include new fan-arch topped metal windows reminiscent of the original design and a thorough cleaning of the building’s stone façade. The architects will also mask necessary louvers and mechanicals for existing ventilation systems. New GFRC columns on the Broadway elevation recall original Tuscan columns that were removed long before designation.

In the spirit of the building’s original signage, the team will install a new marquee over the hotel entrance on 32nd Street and include stamped metal detailing from the original manufacturer.

The new retail entrances will feature appropriate signage and aluminum framing with wood bulkheads for future commercial tenants, as well as restaurants along 33rd Street, Broadway, and 32nd Street. Vertical illuminated signs will also replace existing monumental sign boxes.

While the project is in motion, the team has not released a construction schedule or anticipated date of completion.

Subscribe to YIMBY’s daily e-mail Follow YIMBYgram for real-time photo updates Like YIMBY on Facebook Follow YIMBY’s Twitter for the latest in YIMBYnews