Despite Landmarks Approval, 190 Bowery May Shed Its Iconic Graffiti After All
190 Bowery getting a bath; photo via Bowery Boogie
Though the Landmarks Preservation Commission approved a proposal to restore the former Germania Bank Building at 190 Bowery with its controversial coat of graffiti intact, the on-again-off-again spray paint layer looks to be on its way out according to onlookers (h/t Bowery Boogie). Power-washing and a “paint-removal system” are reportedly underway, disappearing decades of scrawl.
The iconic 72-room building, for decades home to photographer Jay Maisel and his family, was purchased for $55 million by developer Aby Rosen almost two years ago. Plans are in the works to convert the 1898 building to offices with retail at the ground level.
The refurb, under the guidance of preservation architecture firm Higgins Quasebarth & Partners with the help of MdeAS Architects, is also to include restoration of metal gates, wooden doors, stained glass (which was recently installed and unveiled) and an ADA-compliant street entrance on Spring Street. It should be noted however, that almost exactly a year ago, 6sqft reported on a similar situation in which the building was being stripped of its graffiti, but it turned out to be more of a cleaning.
See more current photos over on Bowery Boogie.
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