LPC approves Nouvel’s MoMa tower

A skyscraper planned next to the Museum of Modern Art and designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel passed a big obstacle today. The Landmark Preservation Commission approved the transfer of development rights from two landmarked buildings on Fifth Avenue, the University Club and St. Thomas Church. The commission also ruled that the Nouvel tower would have no effect on either the club or the church. The proposed 75-story hotel-condo at 53 West 53rd Street now moves to the city’s land-review process. Neighborhood residents have expressed concern about the height of the tower, which would reach higher than the Chrysler Building. TRD