Corner Contemporary

Nestled among the picturesque historic rowhomes of Philadelphia’s Fitler Square neighborhood, these ultra-high-end single-family homes punctuate the neighborhood’s fabric with a fresh design and thoughtful urban planning. The creation of these two homes involved the transformation of a vacant lot, previously used as a surface parking lot, into a beautiful and functional living space.

The project’s success lies in its ability to contrast with the historic red brick while still feeling “of the neighborhood.” The massing of the buildings solids and voids reflects the rhythm of the rowhome widths on the block, creating a harmonious visual blend of past and present.

The monochromatic combination of brick and cast stone was a vital component in achieving the project’s aesthetic goals. The selection of the neutral-toned brick, with its mottled, soft shades, provided a rich depth to the façade. The brick’s Roman proportion felt more luxurious and unique than standard brick sizes, adding to the overall stately feel of the homes. The use of brick and stone detailing helped achieve a monolithic feel, while the vertical divisions in the façade detailing represented the rhythm of the neighboring rowhomes, breaking down the broad faces of the building.