Philly YIMBY’s recent site visit has confirmed that construction work is complete at a six-unit residential development at 1712 Christian Street in Graduate Hospital, South Philadelphia. The structures replace two three-story prewar rowhouses on a through-block lot that stretches from Christian Street to the north to Montrose Street to the south. Designed by Moto Designshop, the complex consists of two rowhouses situated at either end of the site, each rising three stories and featuring three units, with a 33-foot-long rear yard in between. Both structures will feature rear and roof decks. Permits list Made Construction as the contractor and a construction cost of $400,000.
1712 Christian Street. March 2025. Photo by Jamie Meller
1712 Christian Street. March 2025. Photo by Jamie Meller
The completed building features a dynamic, distinctly contemporary design that differs starkly from its prewar neighbors; however, the new structure’s staggered vertical windows harmonize surprisingly well with the diverse array of existing rowhomes on the block. A facade of dark gray brick, punctuated with gently inset windows, appears quite sophisticated yet understated.
The rowhouse that stood on Christian Street was rather unremarkable, as it was clad in generic, non-historic formstone, although a restoration may have uncovered its original red brick facade, had it been undertaken. Notably, this end of the site faces a historic marker dedicated to John C. Ashbury, who resided at , or adjacent to, the location, citing his years of life from 1862 through 1941 and describing him as a “prominent African-American Republican who as legislator sponsored a statewide Civil Rights bill in 1921 that served as a model for future efforts. He was a philanthropist, a founder of Eden Cemetery and Mercy Hospital, and editor of the Odd Fellows’ Journal.”
1712 Christian Street. Zoning submission. Credit: Moto Designshop via the City of Philadelphia
1712 Christian Street prior to demolition. Looking south from Christian Street. Credit: Google Maps
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They are so sad looking.
Clever. The shared back yard is double the size it would be if each building was on its own.
Although not displayed in the post, Google Maps October 2024 shows that the Montrose St. structure is similar to that on Christian St., three stories with third floor mezzanine, identical brown brick, staggered windows, small cornice, somewhat hidden utility meters, etc.
The existing Christian St. tree was preserved.
Well done Moto Designshop.
Very nice architectural designs.
I am impressed.
This is a very modern upgrade from the past.
That oversized tree across the street needs a serious haircut.
Only a few city blocks from the Ellsworth-Federal station of the Broad Street Line to the southeast and the 17 bus to the west on 19th and 20th streets.
The two townhouses that were demolished looked to be in decent condition. We have to stop handing out demo permits every time they are requested!