Back in June, we gave you a first look at Barzilay Development's Sanctuary Lofts, a truly impressive adaptive reuse project that was formerly the home of Great Saint Matthew Baptist Church at 2319 Fitzwater Street in Graduate Hospital. The iconic building features a 128 foot clock tower, and combines 30 loft-style homes and eight apartments in the main church and its adjoining rectory (the main church redevelopment is now complete, and the rectory is slated for its conversion soon).
Alon Barzilay joins the ranks of a small group of developers in the Philadelphia area who have prioritized saving the city's houses of worship for adaptive reuse. He says: "I felt it was my responsibility to not only save this historic church, but also preserve its unique character for the citizens of Philadelphia."
In an interview with the Philadelphia Inquirer, Barzilay continued: "It took a long time to figure out how to save it, but we were able to make all the apartments unique, with those who live on the top floor able to see the architectural features out of view of a century and more of worshipers."
The 180-year old church features a stunning stone facade, cathedral ceilings, and stained glass windows, much of which has been integrated into the various residences, now available to rent. Units are available in one (pictured) and two bedroom lofts and apartments — with rents ranging from $1,200 to $2,750 per month.
· Sanctuary Lofts
· Ardmore Baptist Church next in line for ReBuild [Curbed Philly]
· Prayers answered: Sanctuary Lofts available in G-Ho [Curbed Philly]
· In the business of saving churches [Philly.com]
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