Mixed-Use

Team

Greenpoint Manufacturing and Design Center
Women's Community Revitalization Project
Kensington South Neighborhood Advisory Council
DIGSAU

Context

The site is located on the edge of an old factory district in Kensington, close to the Market-Frankford Line and side by side with residential blocks.

Site

This tightly-packed complex of factory buildings has several narrow courtyards and a 22,000 square foot parcel of vacant land at one corner. Its location at the nexus between industrial and residential districts make it a good candidate for a new brand of mixed-use development that combines small-scale industries with affordable housing.

Challenge

How can the site be redeveloped to combine new industry with housing within a neighborhood context?

Design Solution

- Practice selective demolition to simplify and adapt densely developed industrial sites.
- Create an architectural element—the ramp—to mediate between different uses and a diverse set of buildings.
- Use the character of the existing buildings, site, and context to create a progression of views and spatial experiences.