Like anybody else, we’re always looking for nicer digs. Sure, we’re entirely happy with our quaint, two story row home on a quiet block just outside of Center City, but the thought of moving to a new house in another part of town, or a place with more space, or with a unique design definitely has crossed our minds. So when we noticed the “For Sale” sign at 1200 Latimer St. the other day, we confess that we spent a couple of minutes fantasizing about what it would be like to live there. A quick check on the price tag shattered that daydream into a thousand fragments. Yup, it’s listed for $6.2 million.

Something different

The home is owned, and was designed by husband and wife duo David and Ligia Slovic in the mid-1990’s. Mr. Slovic, who can obviously design and build an unusual house, has apparently moved away from architecture and more toward art in recent years.

According to the second edition of Philadelphia Architecture: a guide to the City, this house was built on the site of three row homes demoed in the 1940s and “attempts to bring the amenities of suburban living to an urban setting.” A central courtyard divides the building, which means that much of the building’s light comes from windows that face the interior of the property. This explains the blank walls on the first floor, which may have felt more necessary twenty years ago. Along with its size and shape, industrial design elements make this building stick out dramatically from the adjacent homes.

Fits right in?

The listing explains that the home has nearly 6,000 sqft of living space, with three bedrooms and five bathrooms. A separate professional studio/living space is also located somewhere on the property. Three car parking, a roof deck, and the aforementioned 2,000 sqft courtyard make this home not only unique in terms of design but also in terms of amenities offered in the heart of Center City. No swimming pool though, sorry.

Check out some photos from the listing:

Up on the roof

Part of the kitchen. Maybe time for a new dishwasher?

Looking into the courtyard from inside. Note the crazy high ceilings.

Okay, so maybe this place is a little more than we need at the moment. Even so, it’s a fun exercise to think about what it would be like to live here.

One bonus that comes to mind immediately: easy access to the recently-opened Odd Fellows Cafe!