Thomas Jefferson University buys Richard Neutra’s Hassrick Residence for $1.9M

After listing for $2.1 million in April after undergoing a top-to-bottom restoration, the iconic Hassrick Residence in East Falls by Richard Neutra has found a buyer: The recently merged Thomas Jefferson University.

Listing agent Craig Wakefield told Curbed Philly that Philadelphia University and Thomas Jefferson University, which recently joined forces as one college institution, bought the midcentury modern at 4130 Cherry Lane for $1,990,000.

“I think they will be wonderful stewards of the home,” Wakefield said in an e-mail. “They are planning to use [it] as a place for visiting faculty to stay and possibly as a learning space.”

The Hassrick Residence is located less than a mile from Philadelphia University’s main campus entrance.

Renowned architect Richard Neutra designed the five-bedroom, three-bath home in 1958 for local artist Kenneth Hassrick and his family. Built on a low budget and with local materials, the residence is iconic for its floor-to-ceiling windows and craftsmanship. It also boasts a kitchen designed by George Nakashima.

The home last sold to 2008 to a couple from California, who spent years working with local universities (including Philadelphia University) to restore the deteriorated midcentury modern back to its original state. It earned a spot on the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places.

“It is great to know the home will be continued to be preserved,” said Wakefield.

• Richard Neutra’s iconic Hassrick Residence in East Falls lists for $2.195M [Curbed Philly]