Central Park Police Precinct, the Stable Complex
The restoration of Central Park Police Precinct is being honored this month by the New York Landmarks Conservancy with a Lucy G. Moses Preservation Award. This is the story of how a mid-19th century Victorian horse stable, designed by the architects of Central Park, was adapted to serve the needs of a technologically modern police precinct. It would not have happened without the enlightened support of NYC's Department of Design and Construction and the Police Department, whose CP Precinct is now happily ensconced inside a new two story glass atrium enveloping part of the original building as though it were a precious museum object--and it is. The design team of Karlsberger Architecture (Fred Basch, Fred Basch Architect, PLLC), Building Conservation Associates, Inc., and Robert Silman Associates, is especially proud of the restoration's harmonious balance between new functions and historic features. The respectful intersection of old and new does not detract from the historic character of the buildings, because it can still be experienced in its entirety. This modern intervention assures active, respectful stewardship, and illustrates how preservation is relevant in today’s world. 
