271 West 71st Street

271 West 71st Street

NB Number: NB  385-1886

Type:  Rowhouse

Architect:  Smith, W. Holman

Developer/Owner/Builder: Van Loon & Capron

Row Configuration: One of originally 13 houses designed as a larger row. Each house looked
different from one another employing multiple sandstone hues and painted cornices, assorted
rooflines, and varied placement of large open bays. The row was described more than once as a
“reign of terror” and was acknowledged for its “energy.” Of the larger row, only 265 and 271
West 71st Street remain intact.

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:  Queen Anne

Primary Facade:   Brick, Brownstone, and Red Brick

Stories: 3 and basement

Historic District: West End-Collegiate HD Extension

Significant Architectural Features: Rusticated masonry base and first story, including wraparound sidewall at L-shaped stoop; main entry recessed behind large round-arched opening  articulated with a brick relieving arch; pressed metal (or other material) cornice, frieze and patterned soffit within recessed porch area; geometric panel above second story; recessed brick edges at third story; molded cornice and triangular parapeted pediment at roofline

Alterations: Replaced sashes (one-over-one double-hung sashes present in c. 1939 tax  photograph); painted at first story; some resurfacing beneath basement window openings; vent in opening below eastern basement window opening; hanging light fixture within porch area; light at basement.

References: Christopher Gray, “Row Houses Gone Wild,” New York Times, December 12, 2012, RE8.

Site Features: Masonry steps descend into areaway (resurfaced)

South Facade: Designed (historic, repointed)
Stoop: Original
Door(s): Possibly historic primary door; non-historic door beneath stoop
Windows: Replaced (upper stories); replaced (basement)
Security Grilles: Possibly historic (basement)
Cornice: Original
Areaway Paving Material(s): Patterned concrete
Sidewalk Material(s): Concrete
Curb Material(s): Concrete and metal
West Facade: Not designed (historic)
Facade Notes: Brick; painted