A city commission granted landmark status to the northern section of Crown Heights Tuesday to preserve what it calls a "kaleidoscopic" array of styles.The Landmarks Preservation Commission's nine members were unanimous in their decision, a move that will protect 470 buildings. The historic district centers around Dean Street and includes several blocks off Brooklyn Avenue. Changes to facades will now require city approval.Resident Denise Brown says the decision is a welcome one after five years of fighting to protect the area. "Architectural and housing stability, increased housing values, pride ? pride in the community," Brown said about the ruling.The New York City Council is expected to give final approval to the decision during its next full meeting.

A community group plans to begin work on getting an adjacent section of the neighborhood also deemed historic.