242 West 71st Street

242 West 71st Street

NB Number: NB 515-1892

Type:  Rowhouse

Architect:  Thom & Wilson

Developer/Owner/Builder: J. A. Frame

Row Configuration: Part of a row of ten houses (236 through 254 West 71st Street), designed to appear as five independent, non-identical pairs. Nine of the houses remain (nos. 238 through 254). This building’s “partner” is no. 240. This pair is nearly identical in appearance to the pair at nos. 248 and 250 (the latter pair retains more details).

NYC Landmarks Designation:  Historic District

Landmark Designation Report: Addendum to the West End-Collegiate Historic District Extension Designation Report

National Register Designation: N/A

Primary Style:  Romanesque Revival with alterations

Primary Facade:   Brownstone

Stories: 3 and basement

Historic District: West End-Collegiate HD Extension

Significant Architectural Features: Molded window surrounds with rounded corners at first and third stories; molded lintels at second story supported on small cherub-faced corbels; bracketed cornice with wreaths at frieze.

Alterations: Stoop removed, original main entry converted to window opening, and new main entry installed at basement level (after c. 1939 tax photograph but prior to c. 1980s tax photograph); replaced sashes (historic configuration not determined); screen windows at first through third stories; non-historic infill (vent) at opening beneath western window opening at basement; awning at main entry; light fixture at basement; conduit at eastern end of elevation at basement.

Site Features: Concrete stairs with metal handrails descend into areaway
North Facade: Designed (historic, resurfaced)
Stoop: Removed
Door(s): Replaced primary door
Windows: Replaced (upper stories); replaced (basement)
Security Grilles: Possibly historic (basement)
Cornice: Original
Areaway Wall/Fence Material(s): Non-historic concrete curb with metal railings
Areaway Paving Material(s): Orange ceramic tiles
Sidewalk Material(s): Concrete
Curb Material(s): Concrete and metal