Philadelphia YIMBY’s recent site visit has confirmed that construction work is complete at Fifteen38 Flats, a four-story, 12-unit condominium building at 1538 Frankford Avenue (alternately 1538-44 Frankford Avenue) in Fishtown. The development is situated on the west side of the block between Jefferson and East Oxford streets. Designed by KJO Architecture, the structure spans 23,741 square feet, which includes 5,829 square feet of retail. Permits list Optimal Construction Group as the contractor and specify a construction cost of $2.4 million.
1538-44 Frankford Avenue. Photo by Jamie Meller. June 2025
1538-44 Frankford Avenue. Photo by Jamie Meller. June 2025
As completed, the building’s design remains largely true to the rendering. The vertically corrugated metal panels are less glossy on the finished product than they appeared in the renders, which may be a positive change as it is more deferential to the brick-and-stone prewar rowhouses that, despite ample new development in the surrounding area, still predominate throughout the neighborhood. The angled cantilevered sections also pay homage to the narrow-lot rowhouse vernacular, while their curved corners add a pleasant touch of the avant-garde.
Listings state that each condo comes with two bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms; the residences feature four distinct layouts. Kitchens feature quartz countertops, custom white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and a center island. The building offers an elevator and a roof deck with a dog run.
The development replaces four two- to three-story mixed-use prewar rowhouses, all apparently dating to various periods. Arguably, only the building at 1540 Frankford Avenue offered any preservation value, with its hipped roof and small dormer showcasing classic Federal style. But even here, the white-washed, ornament-free structure appeared rather dilapidated, with a facade that displayed water damage, so it hardly warranted preservation efforts; even less positives may be noted about the three other buildings.
1538-44 Frankford Avenue prior to demolition. Looking west. Credit: Google Maps
The avant-garde, Streamline Moderne-inspired look makes for a good fit for the block, where a number of contemporary-styled buildings have been constructed in recent years. Moreover, the proposal’s brown exterior, separation into discrete vertical masses, and tall, narrow windows all pay stylistic homage to the prewar buildings that still remain on the block.
Rendering of 1538 Frankford Avenue. Credit: KJO Architecture.
Rendering of 1538 Frankford Avenue. Credit: KJO Architecture.
Rendering of 1538 Frankford Avenue. Credit: KJO Architecture.
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Very nice modern minimalist design really elevates this development that speaks volumes of the character and charm this edifice.
Just a short walk to Front Street and a half-mile walk to the Berks (north) or Girard (south) stations of the Market-Frankford Line. 🚇
If offered the option, Girard Avenue has a McDonald’s restaurant and the SEPTA G Trolley 15 route.
No mention of off-street parking. ⇠🅿️
Numerous small parks, playgrounds and a cemetery are within a reasonable distance.
BREAKING NEWS‼️
The District Council 33 (DC 33) reached a deal with the City of Philadelphia to end the strike.
Trash pickup services has been restored for city residents.
Gotta love those curves.