Gate to Block Tourists at Iconic Carrie Bradshaw Brownstone

Landmarks Commission approves new gate to curb fan visits
By Newser.AI Read our AI policy
Posted Jan 16, 2025 12:45 AM CST
Gate to Block Tourists at Iconic Carrie Bradshaw Brownstone
A resident steps over a chain restricting access to the brownstone where Carrie Bradshaw lived in “Sex and the City”, in New York, Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025. The city’s Landmarks Preservation Commission approved an application for a metal gate for the front staircase of the Manhattan brownstone to keep...   (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

The Landmarks Preservation Commission in New York has approved a proposal for a gate to be installed at the iconic brownstone known as Carrie Bradshaw's apartment from Sex and the City. Owned by Barbara Lorber since 1978, the three-story building in Greenwich Village has been a magnet for fans of the show. Lorber expressed relief at the decision, noting that the staircase's fame has persisted for decades despite her reluctance to adapt to the public interest.

Shots of the building were used to depict the exterior of Bradshaw's apartment in the series. Though the stoop has been closed off with a "no trespassing" sign, it has not effectively discouraged fans, creating disturbances in the neighborhood. All eight commission members supported the gate proposal, given the intense and ongoing disturbance. Lorber's architect is set to collaborate with commission staff to finalize the design, which must fit the aesthetic guidelines of this historic district.

Sex and the City, depicting the life and friendships of Bradshaw, portrayed by Sarah Jessica Parker, captivated audiences for six seasons starting in 1998 and led to several spin-offs. Tourists, such as Anthony Gillbee from Australia, continue to visit, highlighting the brownstone's impact as a cultural site. Gillbee acknowledged the inconvenience posed to residents but noted, "it's an iconic venue." However, he worried that adding a gate might alter its legendary status. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)

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