however eyecatching, the name's deceiving: what was once hallowed ground has long been de-sanctified, so it doesn't even get the title "church" any longer. instead, the space has played host to a number of secular businesses in the past and has been vacant for almost a year now. however, the site at 22nd and chesntut streets recently acquired some new tenants.... and through the generosity of a good friend (thanks chris!), i was able to attend their much-anticipated welcoming reception last night.
but before i offer up the requisite photos, let me prelude with this:
while the outside remained true to the original, walking by i could only imagine what was left of the guts of the space. developers of corporate culture, as sensitive to architectural history as they can be... yeah right.... very easily have covered, removed, and even destroyed the works of long-forgotten artisans and craftsman time and time again. at the risk of sounding melodramatic, i was sure the space had been ruined forever...
all i can say is, i'm glad i was wrong:
mark b thompson architects- also behind the renovations of the waterworks and reading terminal
philadelphia area buildings- pictures and history of the site, membership required
corporate facilities inc- new tenants who throw a damned good party ;)
1 comment:
What an exquisite building! And your photos appear to do it justice. Thanks for opening my eyes to this beauty.
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