Building an extension in landmark district

We have just obtained 2 approvals for rear yard additions in historic districts in BK. Attached is a look at one of the projects, which had other complexities due to the home being a timber frame house, therefore triggering fire code compliance concerns. The approval process at Landmarks itself, independent of working through objections with DoB, can be more time consuming. I’d suggest you allow @3-4months on the Landmarks side of the equation. Other approvals can happen concurrently. Happy to discuss further if you’d like: hola@agenciegroup.com. [Agencie – Landmarks Addition](//muut.com/u/brownstoner/s1/:brownstoner:UstG:agencielandmarksaddition.jpg.jpg)

AnArchitect

in Renovation 7 years and 11 months ago

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hendelmicha | 7 years and 11 months ago

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My parents own a 2-family, 4-story brownstone in a Brooklyn landmark district. They are looking to build an 8-foot extension on each of the 4 stories to accommodate our growing family. The building does not have a C of O but is currently being used as a double duplex, which we plan to keep it that way. An architect who has some experience with landmark projects mentioned to me that nowadays it can easily take more than a year to obtain permit. Also even though technical requirements such as FAR and zoning are met, the certainty level of getting approval is unknown because of the subjective elements and considerations involved during the landmark/community review process. He did mention that since the extension is at the back and is not visible from the front, the timing and likelihood of approval may be a bit more favorable, and getting the “right” expeditor can help as well. Can someone (both homeowners and professionals) who has experience in similar proj ects give us some pointers on what to expect timing and process wise? Any suggestion and recommendation is much appreciated as well. Many thanks for your help!

Arkady | 7 years and 11 months ago

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I’d look at minutes from previous Community Board meetings that have dealt w/ this kind of thing. Also, it’ll depend to an extent on the interests & activism of your neighbors. I believe you can also search the Landmark archives to see what time frame to expect.

resident2 | 7 years and 11 months ago

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As you currently have no C of O, the DOB will probably require the whole building to come up to today’s code. NYC Landmarks will be the least of your worries.
This will be an extremely long process and extremely expensive and then your RE Taxes will increase dramatically once all is finished.
It may well be financially & easier all round to sell what you have and buy a bigger house.

hendelmicha | 7 years and 11 months ago

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Thanks for all your input. A lot new to think about!