When it comes to the ornate workmanship and impressive artistry of Art Deco architectural design, Philadelphia is not the most often recognized city to find it. But little do people know, that Philadelphia has one of the nation’s most substantial collections of Art Deco buildings.
What is Art Deco?
The words art deco are shortened from the French words “Arts Decoratifs” which translates into English as “decorative arts.” Many attribute the Art Deco architecture movement that hit the American scene between world wars in the 1920s as starting in France, though some recognized architects built impressive buildings in the style earlier than this.
One of the most recognized art deco buildings in the world is The Chrysler Building in New York. The style encompasses many different types of buildings constructed during the time, but the most recognizable characteristic is the use of sharp geometric forms and rich materials. Many of the buildings used materials including stucco, chrome, steel, decorative glass, aluminum, and terra-cotta.
Art Deco in Philadelphia
Philadelphia does not necessarily have a neighborhood or district full of Art Deco buildings, but there are some sprinkled hidden architectural gems located inside the city limits. There is also the collection found in Upper Darby a suburb of Philadelphia that some consider to be part of the city.
Philadelphia’s Most Familiar Art Deco Buildings
Ayer Condominium Building
The Ayer was built in 1927 and finished in 1929. It is located on Washington Square and is home to ultra-luxury condominiums. It was once the headquarters of one of the most prominent ad agencies in America in the 1920s and 1930s.
Perelman Building
The Perelman building was constructed in 1927. It is right next to the Philadelphia Museum of Art and is now an extension of the museum. It is one of the most impressive and detailed buildings in the city of Philadelphia. It was once known as the gateway to Fairmount Park.
WCAU Building
The WCAU was built in 1928. Is one of the most recognizable art openings in the entire city. It was originally built to house the Woolworth company on the first floor with several levels of office space above. The WCAU radio station would take residence at the top of the building. This was the first building in the country designed specifically to house a radio station.
Icon
Built in 1929 this building is now referred to as the Icon but was originally referenced as 1616 Walnut. It is a 25-story building that was built for the use of the Sun Oil Company. The building is now a luxury apartment building.
The Drake
The Drake is another one of those impressive and fairly famous buildings in Philadelphia. It was built in 1929 and originally used as a hotel. It is recognized by its iconic terra-cotta dome and its Spanish Baroque details. It was named the Drake for its design influence by Francis Drake. Today the building is an impressive apartment community.
Septa Suburban Station
The Septa Suburban Station was built in 1930 off of LOVE Park. This station is a head-turner and often a tourist hotspot. It was originally a terminal for the Pennsylvania Railroad and is now an office building and train station with retail stores located below. It is a protected building listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
One South Broad
This is the youngest of the highlighted art deco buildings on the list. One South Broad was constructed in 1932. It is quintessential to the Philadelphia Center City skyline. This impressive building spans 500 feet recognized by its tall tower. It was built as a sister structure to the then-iconic Wanamaker’s Department Store, which is just around the corner.
If you are interested in living in one of Philadelphia’s most stunning and visually impressive historic buildings, contact the team at Victory Real Estate. We are a team of extensively experienced Philadelphia real estate agents ready to find you the ideal Philadelphia home.