Landmark Under Threat

A beloved New York City landmark, forever etched in the memories of 'Sex and the City' fans, could soon be shrouded from view if its owner succeeds in her plans. The building at 66 Perry Street in Greenwich Village, known as the exterior of Carrie Bradshaw's apartment, has turned into a pilgrimage site for devoted followers of the iconic HBO series.

Owner's Concerns

The property owner has expressed her frustrations to the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission, highlighting the overwhelming presence of tourists. "At any hour of the day or night, groups of visitors gather in front of the house, taking flash photos, engaging in loud chatter, creating TikTok videos, and celebrating the moment," she stated.

Request for Iron Gate

To curb the incessant crowd and restore some peace, she has transitioned from a simple chain-link barrier to seeking approval for a more imposing iron gate. As she resides in a historic neighborhood, the owner must navigate the bureaucratic channels to obtain permission for the installation.

Background on the Request

The initial report of this request surfaced in the Substack newsletter FeedMe. In her communication, the owner noted that while some visitors adhere to the "No Trespassing-Private Property" sign affixed to the chain barrier, many others blatantly disregard it. She described the troubling behaviors exhibited by some fans, including climbing over the chain to pose for photos, dancing on the steps, and, disturbingly, trying to open the door entrance. Incidents of graffiti and damage, such as initials carved into the doorframe, intensified her plea for action.

Owner's Plea

"After more than 20 years of hoping the fandom would naturally subside, I’ve come to recognize that we need something more substantial to protect our quality of life," she lamented in her application. The owner’s desperate bid reflects a broader challenge many iconic locations face as they grapple with the effects of rampant social media culture.

Cultural Impact of the Show

"Sex and the City" aired from 1998 to 2004, winning seven Emmy Awards during its run. The show intricately weaves the tales of four New York City women navigating their dating lives and friendships, sparking a cult-like allegiance among viewers. In the years since its finale, interest in the series has surged, particularly among younger generations discovering it on streaming platforms like Netflix.

Continuing Legacy

The cultural phenomenon spawned two feature films and a revival series, "And Just Like That," which continues to keep the legacy alive. As this beloved landmark faces potential obscurity, only time will tell whether its entrance will remain a cherished photo-op or fade into the shadows of New York City’s bustling streets.

Public Debate

What do you think? Should iconic locations be preserved for fans, or is it time to respect the privacy of homeowners?