Rendering by Interface Studio Architects
- The Philadelphia Real Estate Blog looks at an impressive example of a developer acknowledging his project’s weaknesses while playing to its strengths. Peter Crawford received variances last week that will allow him to construct a four-story, 6-unit building beneath the El between Master & Thompson Streets. Without the prospect of significant foot traffic anytime soon, the first two floors will be office space. Regardless of the temporary blight and the ceaseless din above, the project is sure to attract with its “original building design, the perception of safety (it looks like a fortress), and proximity to Kensington’s cachet of industrial chic—Kung Fu Necktie, Johnny Brenda’s and Frankford Hall are blocks away, and warehouses with artist spaces abound.”
- A quarter century of Philadelphia’s visual history (1986-2012)—from the most trivial of human-interest stories, to the collective introspection after the MOVE bombing—will not remain hidden for long, reports The Inquirer. When Marion Stokes, 83, passed away one year ago, she left behind 35 years worth of news footage (24/7 national and local) that she had diligently recorded in her Rittenhouse Square home. The California-based Internet Archive library will spend the next few years digitizing the collection that Stokes knew would one day provide a trove of important historical information.
- The Schuylkill River Development Corporation was awarded its first grant last week towards the reuse of the Grays Ferry rail swing bridge, which will hopefully connect the Grays Ferry Crescent trail with Bartram’s Mile just as the latter is completed in 2016. The state’s Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ $300,000 will help finalize the project’s design and some of its initial construction, says Eyes on the Street.
- Two months after purchasing the nine-story Dow Chemical building just west of Independence Mall, holders Keystone Property Group, Mack-Cali Realty Corp., and Parkway Corp. relate their plans for the space to the Philadelphia Business Journal. The basement will become a car garage with 120-130 spots. “A dynamic outdoor space” is envisioned along 6th Street, complete with a restaurant at Sixth and Market Streets.
About the author
Stephen Currall recently received his BA in history from Arcadia University. Before beginning doctoral studies, he is pursuing his interest in local history, specifically just how Philadelphians engage their vibrant past. Besides skimming through 18th century letters, Steve is also interested in music and travel.
