The Urban Jungle

This was taken from the rooftop of a friend's apartment building. Philadelphia truly possesses a remarkable collection of diverse architectural styles ranging from colonial row houses to glass skyscrapers, which together create one of the most unique and beautiful cityscapes in the country.

Demolition at 1215 Walnut

Yet another turn-of-the-century neo-classical facade fell to the wrecking ball last Tuesday thus clearing the way for a proposed 29 story modern mixed use tower. The former Jewish Federation building has been vacant for more than a decade and while it is unclear whether the demolition was due to renewed interest to develop the site or if the building itself was structurally unstable, it is for certain that another relic of the city's brick and stone past has been lost to us forever. It only takes the demolition of a few historically significant buildings a year for a city to lose it's classical aesthetic and historical appeal in a century's time.

Blossoms and Brownstones

Progress on the Parkway

Thought I'd share some pictures on the progress of the Barnes Foundation's new $100 million facility on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

More News on 1710 Walnut

The British footwear brand, Doctor Martens, is scheduled to open its second East Coast location on Walnut St in September. Before then, the 3,800 SF site will undergo a $300,000-$500,000 rehab of the first and second floors to create a high-end designer store. The design will be similar to the NYC SoHo location (as seen below), which opened in November.

New Tenant for 1617 Walnut!

Yet another vacancy on Walnut has been filled! A new sign has been placed in the window of the former Jennifer Convertibles store announcing that a new tenant has been obtained. However, no news yet on who this new retailer will be.

Dr. Martens to Open Store on Walnut St.

The British footwear brand, Dr. Martens, is set to open its fifth retail outlet in the United States on Walnut St.  The company signed a long-term lease with landlord, Weisberg Trust, to rent the 3,800 Square foot space at 1710 Walnut (formerly Design Within Reach.)