Sometimes we'll write about a project based on a reader tip or a zoning application and we're unable to fully weigh in, lacking a complete understanding of the project. In response to such posts, we'll occasionally hear from developers who are helpfully willing to fill in the gaps. Such is the case with the project proposed at 631 N. Broad St. which we covered earlier this week. For those suffering from short term memory loss, the plan here calls for a four story addition to a building that dates back to before 1875, with 41 apartments and ground-floor retail.
In general, the project seemed exciting to us, and we were enthused that the developers would be preserving the existing building. But without any visuals and not knowing the identity of the developers, we tried to temper our expectations. Shortly after we wrote the post, we heard from the developers and some neighbors, informing us about a community meeting which took place yesterday. The developers possess a track record, having built 1720 Fairmount and the Tela's building on Fairmount Avenue in recent years. Right after the community meeting, we got our hands on the renderings. And we like 'em. Canno Design did the architecture work.
The addition has many positive qualities, in our estimation. Most prominently, it has a warehouse look to it, emulating many other buildings nearby on North Broad Street. We also appreciate that it will be set back from the existing building, allowing the older facade room to breathe. And man, those windows look huge- the views are gonna be great. Finally, the new storefront windows will allow whatever retail tenant moves in to have a great street presence.
The project only has one refusal, and it's for parking. One would hope that the ZBA will look at the plan, which involves preserving an old building, and allow the developers to do what they're looking to do. We fear that if parking were shoehorned into this property it would mean the demolition of the old building and the construction of something much less architecturally satisfying. Let's just keep our fingers crossed that this thing happens as presented in the renderings above and the ever-present parking discussion doesn't derail what would be a positive addition to North Broad Street.