This essay is part of a student series for the Centre of Publishing and Applied Liberal Arts (PALA) at NYU SPS. We will be showcasing four student papers written in Spring 2022, for Kelly Carroll’s course Behind The Scenes In New York: Preserving A City Of Historic Neighborhoods. Students were asked to pick a historic site in New York City and make the case for why it should be granted Landmark status.
Don Cantillo chose Macy’s Herald Square. Read an excerpt from his informative essay below:
It is hard to imagine any argument for not bestowing LPC Landmark status on Macy’s, a building which is an important cultural symbol as well as a powerful work of architecture that provides much of the character for one of the city’s busiest areas. It deserves NYC Landmark status for being the beloved institution that draws crowds of tourists and locals, and for symbolizing the ascendance of high-volume retail culture in this country. Macy’s popularized glamor for the masses by using innovative retailing techniques, in an exuberantly stylish setting. The store is the physical embodiment of their triumphant commercial success.
The richly ornamented, monumental building has architectural merits in addition to its cultural significance which entitle it to an LPC designation.”
Don Cantillo’s full paper can be read here: Macy’s Herald Square- Don Cantillo
Behind The Scenes In New York: Preserving A City Of Historic Neighborhoods is a continuing education course that any member of the public can register for and is also one of the required courses in the Certificate in Historic Preservation. The course will be running again in the fall, click here to register.
Great series idea!