Permits have been issued for the construction of a four-story, nine-unit multi-family building at 890-92 North 42nd Street in Belmont, West Philadelphia. The development will replace a two-story residential prewar structure located on the west side of the block between Ogden Street and Westminster Avenue. The structure will feature a roof deck, which, given the future building’s prominent height above the surroundings, will offer dramatic skyline views. Permits list Philadelphia Developments LLC as the owner and contractor and Chris Menna as the design professional.
890-92 North 42nd Street. Credit: Google Maps
The development will rise on a quaint block, where prewar rowhouses designed in a variety of styles center upon a vista of a nearby arch bridge railroad overpass. The most unique among the block’s buildings is the one that currently stands at the site. The front facade of the semi-detached, two-story structure is recessed from the sidewalk and is adorned with heavy wooden shutters, which might appear operational until one notices a lack of hinges. In an even more unusual manner, its south face is fully articulated with a covered porch and windows, which look out onto an overgrown garden.
North 42nd Street, with 890-92 North 42nd Street on the right. Looking south. Credit: Google Maps
North 42nd Street, with 890-92 North 42nd Street on the left. Looking north. Credit: Google Maps
890-92 North 42nd Street. Looking northwest. Credit: Google Maps
The property has a certain charm that adds character to the block. However, its rundown condition and under-utilization of land in a dense neighborhood render the proposed replacement as quite acceptable.
Similar to other neighborhoods surrounding University City, Belmont is seeing a surge in real estate development. In June YIMBY reported on permits issued for a seven-unit residential building two blocks south at 817-19 North 42nd Street. We expect to see more developments to be announced in this centrally-located, transit-accessible area in the near future, perhaps at the vacant lot sits across the street from the latest proposal, at the southeast corner of North 42nd Street and Westminster Avenue.
890-92 North 42nd Street. Looking northwest. Credit: Google Maps
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What is that interesting looking bridge a few blocks away on 42nd street?
I’ve never seen this neighborhood in my life!
Very interesting little house.
Should it be replaced when it’s pretty historic?
Anyhow, losing that little house will erase history.
Not far from the Philadelphia Zoological Gardens and the proposed residential skyscraper on 3000 Baring Street (taller than City Hall at 570 feet (THE most desirable spot in the city)).
You’re a few city blocks from SEPTA trolley route 10 and bus route 43.
Beautiful little house with brick sidewalk…renters dont plant roots…just passin through