Set on one of Philadelphia’s most coveted blocks, just steps from both Rittenhouse and Fitler Squares, this extraordinary 1863 corner residence pairs the grandeur of its historic architecture with a remarkably sophisticated modern sensibility. Listed on the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places, the approximately 7,500-square-foot home was meticulously restored through a collaboration between Philadelphia-based STUDIO EDO and acclaimed New York designer S.R. Gambrel, preserving its architectural integrity while introducing an exceptional level of craftsmanship, comfort and contemporary function.
The scale is immediately impressive. Ceilings rise to nearly 14 feet, oversized windows on three exposures bring exceptional light throughout, and original architectural character is complemented by hand-finished plaster, custom millwork, hardwood and stone floors, and carefully considered bespoke details. An elevator discreetly connects the home’s multiple levels.
The lower ground floor is particularly memorable. Ten-foot ceilings, rough-coat plaster walls and heated Belgian black stone floors create an atmospheric setting for relaxed living and entertaining. The family room opens directly to an extraordinary kitchen, where expanses of richly veined stone meet illuminated limed-oak cabinetry. A La Cornue double-oven range anchors a suite of professional appliances including two Sub-Zero refrigerator/freezers, two dishwashers and an ice maker. A substantial center island provides seating, storage and a secondary prep sink, while an open pantry and vitrine-style butler’s pantry incorporate a dedicated coffee station and two large-capacity wine refrigerators. A mudroom, powder room and direct access to the courtyard complete the level.
The second floor is devoted to an exceptional primary suite. The serene bedroom, with ceilings rising to approximately 13.5 feet, features linen-paneled walls, motorized blackout drapery, dual exposures and a marble fireplace. A Savile Row-inspired dressing room is beautifully executed in limed oak with custom fittings and extensive wardrobe storage. The adjoining bath is quietly luxurious, with fine stone, stained silver oak, double vanity, private water closet and rain and steam shower.
Also on this level is a remarkable library, enveloped in hand-lacquered paneling with inked-glass insets, custom bookcases and a concealed television. An antique bronze and malachite fireplace gives the room a jewel-box quality, while a hidden home office offers privacy and views across the surrounding historic rooftops toward the Philadelphia skyline.
Above, a Mayfair-inspired skylight washes the Venetian plaster walls of the upper landing with natural light. Two beautifully appointed bedroom suites and a generous ensuite den offer flexibility for family and guests, each finished with the same attention to material and detail found throughout the home. Additional closets and a dedicated laundry room complete the floor.
Outside, the handsome brick façade, stone detailing, mansard roof and dormer windows speak to the home’s 19th-century origins. A private fenced courtyard provides an intimate setting for outdoor dining and entertaining and can alternatively accommodate off-street parking for two cars.
Rare in both scale and execution, this is a historic Philadelphia residence that feels neither preserved in time nor overly renovated. Instead, its 1863 architecture and contemporary interiors exist in thoughtful balance—a sophisticated city home of exceptional provenance, privacy and design, positioned between two of Philadelphia’s most beloved squares.
