Kramer Levin Secures Zoning Variance for Museum and Library Building of The Frick Collection

On March 17, 2020, Kramer Levin secured a zoning variance from the NYC Board of Standards and Appeals for an addition to the existing museum and library building of The Frick Collection (Frick) located on Fifth Avenue in the Upper East Side, Manhattan. The addition will allow the Frick to fulfill its vital role as one of New York City’s preeminent cultural and educational institutions. The addition together with interior renovations and repurposing of existing spaces will provide more space for the display of art from the Frick’s permanent collection and the presentation of special exhibitions, allow for modern and expanded conservation facilities, create an education center and new auditorium, and improve visitor circulation and amenities, including ADA-accessibility throughout the facility. 
 
The Frick's existing building is located in the Upper East Side Historic District, and is an individual New York City landmark. The addition will be set back significantly from the adjoining street frontages, allowing for the preservation of the existing building’s principal facades. The variance modified street wall, height, lot coverage, rear yard and rear yard equivalent regulations. The Landmarks Preservation Commission voted to approve the addition in June 2018. 
 
The Kramer Levin team included Land Use partner and co-chair Gary R. Tarnoff, Land Use partner Valerie G. Campbell, special counsel Toni L. Finger, and planning and development specialist Jeff Mulligan.