Renowned architect Robert A.M. Stern has and continues to contribute to Philadelphia’s skyline, from the Comcast tower in Center City to the ongoing 32-story residential tower at 1601 Vine Street. But before he became the starchitect and dean of Yale’s School of Architecture, he got his start just like any other architect by designing smaller spaces, including this Elkins Park apartment.
As the listing states, "recognized early in his career as a significant talent," Stern was hired by a couple in 1974 to design a raw space in the Briar House Apartments complex, which is less than 15 miles from Philly. Stern, now 77, was just 36 years old at the time, and the couple has lived in the 2-bedroom, 3-bath condo ever since.
The apartment, now 40 years old, is admittedly looking pretty good for its age. Described as "modern traditionalist," the condo features some interesting architectural details via Stern, including a curved, glass-brick wall that separates the gourmet kitchen from the hallway. The spacious living room has a wall-to-wall built-in bookcase.
There’s even outdoor space with views of the complex’s pool. In total, it clocks in at 2,610 square feet and is listed for $399,000.