| Objections to planned renovation of Delacorte | |
| Posted by: Theatergoer1978 10:51 am EST 01/29/22 | |
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| In New York, the Historic Districts Council (HDC) has submitted testimony to the Landmarks Preservation Commission opposing planned changes at the Delacorte Theater, home of Shakespeare in the Park. HDC says: HDC finds significant aspects of this proposal (to modify the shell; replace cladding, infill, signage, lighting towers, seating, stairs, decking and fencing; install a canopy and banners; and construct a barrier free access ramp) to be inappropriate. In particular, we believe the following architectural elements are unnecessary and should be carefully reconsidered: the canted reinterpretation of the building’s wood-slatted façade, the expanded canopy size and form, the increased amount (and amplitude) of signage, the heightened lighting towers, and the multi-colored seats, all of which divert attention from the surrounding park, rather than serving as a deferential background. The Delacorte Theater is a significant work of architecture. It was designed by Giorgio Cavaglieri, a prominent New York City architect who helped pioneer the concept of "adaptive reuse" within the discipline of historic preservation. The Delacorte is characterized by a rustic modernism that is well suited to the Central Park setting. Although the theater is not designated as an individual NYC Landmark, it should be treated as such. Any modification to the original structure should be executed in the spirit of Cavaglieri and his contributions to the city. Ennead Architects (architects for the renovation) has a substantial body of sensitively executed preservation and adaptive reuse projects that have involved minimal interventions. They have demonstrated their ability to carefully balance modern programmatic needs with historic preservation. The firm’s work at Carnegie Hall and Giorgio Cavaglieri’s own Joseph Papp Public Theater are two fine examples. It would be an unfortunate irony were the same architects to unnecessarily alter the exterior appearance of Cavaglieri’s Delacorte Theater by making arbitrary formal modifications, rather than simply addressing functional needs. HDC strongly recommends that the Commissioners ask the applicant to reconsider and rework elements of their design, specifically those that alter the theater’s exterior form and appearance. In this case, a quiet, respectful approach to renovation is the appropriate way to act. You can see more at the link, including pictures of proposed changes. I'm not involved in this project on any side — just thought this might be of interest. |
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| Link | HDC on Delacorte |
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