In January of 2021 we told you about plans to convert a historic firehouse in Kensington into a mixed-use apartment building. Work is now well underway. Engine Company #29 at 1221 North 4th Street was built in 1895 and operated as a firehouse until 1979. After that, it was used for storage. Soon, it will have a whole new life that is more suitable than storage for such a beautiful building.
The development team is building a total of 29 residential units along with a commercial space. There will also be a green roof, a roof deck, 14 automobile parking spots, and 15 bicycle stalls. The project entails adding a 1-story addition on top of the existing historic building and constructing a 5-story building on the surface parking lot on the back of the parcel. 9 residential units and the commercial space will be located within the historic section of the project and 20 residential units will be located in the new 5-story building. The parking entrance will be located along Orianna Street. Ten percent of the residential units will be offered at 80% of area median income (AMI).
The renderings and plans for this project, which were approved by the Historical Commission, look fantastic. This is going to be a special building once completed. We’re extremely excited to see the historic firehouse tastefully renovated and for additional residential density to be added to a section of the city that is experiencing tremendous growth. It’s also great to see an affordable component included.
How do you feel about this project? Would you like to live in an old firehouse?
Kyle is a commercial real estate agent at Rittenhouse Realty Advisors, a homeowner, and a real estate investor in Philadelphia. Kyle uses his extensive Philadelphia real estate market knowledge to help his clients buy and sell multifamily investment properties, development opportunities, and industrial sites.
Email Kyle@RittenhouseRealty.com if you are looking to buy or sell a property
Instagram: @agent.kyle