Philadelphia YIMBY Observes Multiple New Lighting Schemes at One Liberty Place in Center City

In recent weeks, new nighttime displays have been lighting up the Philadelphia skyline. The iconic One Liberty Place skyscraper,  located at 1650 Market Street in Center City, is the site of one of these new schemes, where new lights now decorate the crown. Developed by Rouse and Associates and designed by Helmut Jahn of Murphy/Jahn, the 61-story tower was completed in 1987 and stands 945 feet tall to the tip of its spire. Today Philadelphia YIMBY observes the most recent displays atop the skyscraper, after The Lighting Practice has finished revamping the decorative lighting.

One Liberty Place Eagles display. Photo by Thomas Koloski

The new lighting scheme had been in planning stages for over two years, and was finally underway at the end of 2020 when new LED bulbs were installed at the crown. The work carried on to early 2021, with workers in harnesses seen climbing out of hatches on top of the tower, replacing the 20-foot-long bulbs with the new and improved lights. The array was first tested in April, with a few new displays showcased when the lights were finalized in August of this year.

One Liberty Place Halloween display. Photo by Thomas Koloski

Ever since August, the building has been bringing new color into the skyline with the fantastic decorative lighting. With selected people having access to changing the lights at the top of the tower, the lights can showcase multiple displays through the night where one person can schedule a display once per night. On the first night observed, the American flag, the Pennsylvania flag, and a rainbow display were shining, while one other night the Eagles display was illuminated on the night of the home opener, with no option for custom change. Nearing Halloween, the lights were displayed orange, while recently the author of this article captured his scheduled display lit up in the skyline. Possible improvements at the top of Two Liberty Place may also signify the other trophy tower may be getting its lights revamped, as well.

One Liberty Place rainbow display. Photo by Thomas Koloski

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