If you build it, they will come.
The Delaware Waterfront’s newest project, the Philadelphia Live Arts/Philly Fringe HQ, will be an unbelievable reuse project for another one of Philadelphia’s old industrial buildings. It will include offices, a music venue, and a gastropub.
To make it even more interesting, this new development will be going up right across the street from the new Race Street Pier. Coincidence?
If you drive on Kelly Drive as much as I do, which is usually a few times a week, you have probably noticed a decrepit, Spanish style boat house along the river. Going towards Center City, it is on your right side (after you pass under the Strawberry Mansion Bridge); going towards NW Philadelphia, it’s on your left side (just before the bridge).
Over the last few years, I always look over at this building and wonder “When are they going to fix that place? There has been construction site fencing there for years. It’s a cool building, in a great location.”
Inga Saffron has been a very well respected architecture critic in Philadelphia for years. I have always been a fan of her expert opinions, and respect what she has to say.
In this case, I may not agree with everything she says about the project, but then again I’m in the business of real estate (not architecture). This project will be a great addition to this section of Rittenhouse Square; plus, apartments are in high demand these days in Philadelphia.
Please read on to learn more about Philadelphia’s first new skyscraper since the recession began.