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IN THE HEART OF CENTER CITY CHIC NEW QUARTERS RISE
Focus on Rental Housing The Phoenix, Center City
The old Insurance Co. of North America building is now The Phoenix, with 267 luxury apartments.
-Sheila Dyan
The Philadelphia Inquirer, Rentals & Autos
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A location can’t get more “Center City” than 16 th and Arch Streets. The Gateway to the Parkway, it’s within blocks of Suburban Station and other public transportation, theatrical and musical stages, restaurants and shopping, and bustling commercial centers.
And an address can’t get much more cosmopolitan than The Phoenix. The newly redeveloped Insurance Co. of North America building at the southwest corner offers splendid views of the city’s architectural treasures, a historic façade, 267 luxurious apartments, numerous amenities and three floors of commercial space.
Built in 1925, the 20-story, granite-and-brick structure in Georgian/Colonial Revival style was one of Philadelphia’s first skyscrapers. Now a National Historic Landmark, it is undergoing a $73 million renovation that has preserved its sky-high granite loggia, Corinthian columns topped by 9-fot carved eagles, limestone and terra-cotta cornices, and many historic interior details, such as carved bronze elevator doors, marble floors, ornate millwork, and arched windows.
“It’s a very grand-looking building, and I think it’s important that Philadelphia reclaims its architectural history. That’s what makes the city distinct,” said lawyer Ted McMerty, 36, a resident since March 15.
“I have a really good view of Love Park and City Hall…and a very impressive view at night,” McMerty said. “And my unit is interesting, with rooms off at an angle; it has three gigantic windows, a high ceiling, and a huge kitchen.”
“I’m right in the center of the city,” said 28-year-old architect Heather McLay. “I like that they have a door staff and valet parking. The building has a dramatic lobby…and my apartment has character.”
Beyond the elegant cherry-wood and marble lobby are studios, one and two bedroom flats, two-level loft units, and two story “townhouses.” With 644 to 1680 square feet of space, they rent for $1,200 to $5,250.
The original marble floors and walls and ornate crown moldings were preserved in the elevator lobby and halls of the 16 th floor, where two historic two-bedroom units – the original president’s office and boardroom suites – are found. The one with 2,733 square feet rents for $8,000; the other 3,750 square feet, rents for $18,750. They offer original hardwood floors, high, sculpted ceilings, ornate millwork, French doors to terraces, and fireplaces.
All units feature smart wiring, luxury kitchens, washers and dryers, ceramic bathroom and kitchen floors, high ceilings, and new thermal windows.
The fourth floor houses fitness, media, and business centers, private conference rooms, and The Phoenix Club – a social room (with kitchen and fireplace) where residents can enjoy complimentary continental breakfasts daily. On the roof is a terrace. Small pets are allowed, for a fee. Valet garage parking is $275 per month per car. Boutique retail shops and professional offices are planned for the first three floors, and will have a separate entrance – the original two story lobby featuring a painted coffered ceiling, marble floor, fluted columns, and original light fixtures