‘Stella Stables’ 128 East 13th Street is Safe, But Not Landmarked
 The historic ‘Stella Stables’ at 128 East 13th Street were recently renovated and re-opened as the new home of Peridance Studios. This is good news, as GVSHP successfully fought a plan to demolish the building and replace it with a new condo building in 2006. This unique Beaux Arts structure built in 1903, is the city’s last surviving horse auction mart, was according to research compiled by GVSHP frequented by the Belmonts and Vanderbilts in the early 20th century, converted to an assembly line training center for women during World War II (à la Rosie the Riveter), and the studio for artist Frank Stella from 1978 to 2005.
After GVSHP discovered the plan to demolish the building and build new condos in 2006, we immediately called upon the Landmarks Preservation Commission to landmark the building. A hearing was held and there was overwhelming support for designation, from neighbors, preservation groups, and City Council Member Rosie Mendez. This prevented the owner from moving ahead with demolition plans, and instead he voluntarily got the building placed on the State and National Register of Historic Places, granted a “preservation easement” for the building which is intended to prevent demolition or major alterations from ever taking place, and found a long-term arts-related tenant for the space. However, the Landmarks Preservation Commission has never actually held a vote to designate the building a landmark. Read more HERE.
While the building’s future appears safe for now, only landmark designation will ensure its permanent preservation, and recognize its incredible contributions to the City of New York. GVSHP continues to call upon the Landmarks Preservation Commission to finish its work and landmark 128 East 13th Street.
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