Someone recently told us about some loft developments on the 1300 block of Cumberland Street. Given the amount of development happening in East Kensington, we immediately assumed that they meant that something was happening in that neighborhood- only there's no such thing as the 1300 block of E. Cumberland Street. So this meant that they were referring to loft developments on the 1300 block of W. Cumberland Street, several blocks north of Temple University and several blocks south of Temple Hospital. Construction isn't such a common sight around these parts.
Nevertheless, it seems that there are currently adaptive reuse projects on this block.
On the south side of the block we find The Lofts at Cumberland, which styles itself as “Affordable Luxury Lofts.” They’ve also got some pretty pictures on their site, which show classic loft-style features such as exposed brick and an actual loft. Looking at the outside of the building it doesn't seem as if the project is complete but they're actively scheduling tours so maybe it's already occupied.
Across the street, at 1301 W. Cumberland St., is an old factory. We can tell you that in 1922 it was the Fine Art Lace Co. (thank you Google!), and that more recently, it was home to the Edward J. Friel Co. “Designers, Manufacturers, and Distributors: Store, Bank, Bar Fixtures & Equipment: New and Reconditioned”, and by a company making “Columbus Bakery Cases” (thank you old signs!).
We can also tell you that a company called 1301 West Cumberland Investments bought the building and the vacant lot next door for $370K earlier this year. And it’s totally getting renovated right now. Into more lofts, perhaps? The permits aren't so clear.
So there you have it, folks. Another block on the upswing, and a spark glowing further north (or south) than we’d reasonably expect. Perhaps these two projects are just random blips, developers reaching for projects at a time that attractive deals are becoming harder to find. It's also possible that we'll start to see more redevelopment in this pocket, probably targeting undergrads and med students. We'll keep our eyes open for additional projects in the area.