AT&T's Parthenon

[ablarc]

If this lobby were accessible to the general public as an unsullied architecturalmonument to ogle at will--like Grand Central-- I'd say, "don't let 'em change it," but inaccessible as it is, there's a strong case to be made for allowing a respectfulconversion. At least you'll be able to see it--even if draped with merchandise.

Or am I over-optimistic about the outcome? Will it just turn into exploitative commercial raunch?

[LeCom]

This space, if converted into retail, and if done right, can bring more vibrancy back to Downtown and add much upscale pizzaz to an unsightly stretch of Broadway at the intersection with Fulton (right by the exterior columns of the building, you can find a regular gathering place for those unshaved skullcap-wearing guys selling fake Louis Vutton bags); complemented by the under construction Fulton Transit Center across the street, the shopping center would be bound to be an active retail spot. The building is half a block away from the WTC, and can be yet another step in resurgency of a neighborhood that's been marked by a smoldering 16-acre hole for many years. Besides, beautiful early 20th century interiors can be redone into beautiful retail if done right - look at Philly's new Center City Macy's.

However, the interior of the building is a temple. Pictures on this thread don't do it justice, it's just so much more awe-inspiring when you are inside its antique intricate halls that are hauntingly beautiful, partly due to their emptiness and Greek-inmspired sense of space. Thus, I'd be hard-pressed to make a choice, but I'd rather have the space stay pristine and uncluttered, the way it is. However, it won't be a catastrophe (even if, possibly, a big disappointment) if its marble halls are stacked with designer shoes and 500 dollar handbags (for their five dollar imitations, go right outside the door), and the motives of the owners are quite understandable.

[antinimby]

...redone into beautiful retail if done right

Like everything in life, that is the key.

[LeCom]

Like everything in life, that is the key.

True, but redoing things that are astoundingly beautiful to begin with is especially difficult. Try giving a facelift to a Victoria's Secret model without making it (her) worse.

[ZippyTheChimp]

Hustler's Parthenon.

[antinimby]

That'll be nice if it weren't for the next door building's raggedy blank wall.

[LeCom]

That'll be nice if it weren't for the next door building's raggedy blank wall.

Actually, the raggedy wall possibly adds something to the scene - a feeling of classic pimp sleaze - gaudy clubs with x-rated entertainment backed by helpless grit; a throwback to 70's Times Square.

[ablarc]

Pretty nice.

What goes on up there?

[lofter1]

It's Larry Flynt's Hustler Club :

* CLUB DETAILS
Topless Club
Table Dances
60-80 Female Dancers
Full Bar
Drinks: $10 and up
No Food
Min Age 21
No Dress Code
No Features
Everyone Welcome

Party Offerings
V.I.P Card Offerings

[ablarc]

^ I know about the club. What goes on up on the balcony where the Parthenon is?

[antinimby]

Poetry reading?

[lofter1]

Offerings to Hestia?

[LeCom]

Pretty nice.

What goes on up there?

This is a skyscrapers forum. There are plenty of websites on the Internet that will give you a better answer to your question Even SSC with their "horny dykes" thread is more suitable.

[antinimby]

Calling all shoppers! AT&T building stores OKd


Paul D. Colford

The stunning lobby of AT&T's former headquarters in lower Manhattan soon will open to the public - but visitors had better like to shop.

The city Landmarks Preservation Commission, which gave the building and lobby at 195 Broadway landmark status in July, approved a design for three stores in the lobby yesterday.

Commissioners said they were wowed by the owner's detailed presentation and promised to keep a close eye on fixtures and signs to make sure they don't mar the templelike space.

L&L Holdings Chairman David Levinson, who bought the building in 2005, said he was "delighted" by the vote.

Asked when shoppers could expect the unidentified stores to open, he said, "We're not in a hurry. It's got to be done right."

Originally published on January 10, 2007

© 2007 Daily News, L.P.

[LeCom]

They better not **** it up.