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New Developments in the News

JULY 11, 2011

Hotel Chelsea names architect for renovation; New ban outlaws metal roll-down security gates on storefronts

Gene Kaufman, the architect charged with overseeing the renovation of the famed Hotel Chelsea, has said that although the hotel will get new retail space, an expanded lobby and possibly another restaurant as part of a major upgrade being planned by its new owner, the hotel where Andy Warhol filmed a B movie and Thomas Wolfe wrote novels while standing up will retain its bohemian charm. Mr. Kaufman has designed more than 60 New York hotels and 10,000 hotel rooms, including TriBeCa’s limestone-clad Duane Hotel.

The city has officially outlawed the metal roll-down security gates—known for being a magnet for graffiti and for keeping police and firefighters from being able to get a clear view inside when responding to calls. While existing solid gates won’t have to be replaced until 2026, new roll-down gates are required to provide at least 70% visibility through the storefront window.