Dear Editor,
I write this letter in support of Philip Johnson’s Glass House and its application to modify the Special Operating Permit that regulates the site’s activities. I have had the great privilege of working for the National Trust for Historic Preservation at the Glass House site for the past five years alongside a talented, energetic team dedicated to the preservation and stewardship of this site while honoring the privacy of our residential neighbors. My family has resided in New Canaan since 1994 and I have a keen interest in preserving the extraordinary quality of life here.
New Canaan is uniquely rich in examples of modern architecture with some of the most celebrated architects of our time designing and building here. The Philip Johnson Glass House is an icon of American architecture and a national treasure that New Canaanites are fortunate to call our own. Nowhere else can you find such a diverse collection of architecture on one site from one architect.
Balancing public access, stewardship of the site as well as the legacy of Philip Johnson and David Whitney with the concerns of our residential neighbors is admittedly tricky. The site’s management has consistently sought to minimize the noise and traffic that might disturb the local community. The request for slightly expanded hours and an increase in the number of visitors to the property seems relatively modest when one considers the cumulative benefits the Glass House has brought to New Canaan. As far back as the Modern House Day tour in 1949, the Glass House raised money for our library and Community Nursery School. And today the Glass House supports our community via the Chamber of Commerce and joint educational programs with the NC Library, NCHS Photography, NCHS Student Internships, Club Glass House for middle school students and Girl Scouts/Boy Scouts. Importantly as well the Glass House supports local commerce, bringing 15,000 visitors annually to town.
While honoring the spirit of the original Special Permit, this application reflects the need to sustain the property and provide vibrant programming that will secure the site’s rich future.
Respectfully,
Laura Pla
425 Oenoke Ridge Rd