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Tag: philadelphia

6 Ways To Be More Sustainable This Fall

Posted on by Solo Team

Fall offers an opportunity to recommit to sustainability in your home. Whether you embark upon major improvements or small changes, every step you take helps Philly get closer to its zero-waste goal. See how many of the below energy-saving solutions you can check off your list.

Switch To LED Lighting

Today’s LED bulbs are a far cry from those limited, squiggly options of the past. Now they come in all shapes and sizes to coordinate with lighting fixtures in every room, including accent lighting, track lighting, and even candelabra chandeliers.

Candelabra with LED bulbs

This energy-saving alternative to incandescent bulbs will lower your electric bill by using only 10-watts to produce the same amount of light as an incandescent 60-watt bulb. While LED bulbs are initially more expensive, they have an exceptionally long life span, lasting more than ten years. Another benefit is that LEDs emit almost no heat or UV rays. They are usually not hot to the touch, making them safer to handle than incandescent bulbs. Plus, they can help reduce air conditioning costs and won’t cause nearby fabrics and furniture to fade. 

Choose a warm or soft white LED bulb for living rooms, bedrooms, and dining rooms. Bright white works best in kitchens and bathrooms. And, yes, fluorescent fixtures can be retrofitted with LED. HomeDepot provides a DIY guide on transitioning from incandescent fluorescent bulbs to LED.

Leave The Leaves, Or Compost Them

As trees begin to shed their foliage in the fall, consider leaving them on the ground or composting them instead of sending them to the landfill. Leaves left in the garden can be used as a mulch in vegetable gardens, flower beds, and around shrubs and trees. Leaving them to decompose will return valuable nutrients to the soil and using them as mulch can help insulate more delicate plants during the winter months.

If you are not able to simply leave them, fall leaves make for great composting material. They provide a rich source of carbon, and add significant quantities of trace minerals and plant nutrients to your backyard compost pile. Once we’re in peak leaf-peeping season, many local compost services like Bennett Compost and Circle Compost will also begin picking them up with a regular compost subscription service.

Recycle Your Closet

It’s not just your trash that needs to be recycled. It’s also your clothes! Instead of buying new clothing that depletes the environment, consider shopping at one of Philly’s many consignment shops, such as Greene Street, Addiction Studios, and ReMix.

Photo: Career Wardrobe

Consider donating any clothing that doesn’t fit or you no longer wish to keep to local consignment shops such as The Wardrobe at 413 North 4th Street aims to provide affordable attire for people who are seeking employment, are moving to independence after incarceration, or moving into recovery. They accept donations of clothing and accessories for men and women, including casual, professional, and dressy attire. 

Switch To Sustainable Candles 

Vellum Soap Company makes beeswax candles packaged in reused glass

As the days get shorter and nights longer, there’s nothing like candlelight to add warmth to a room. However, most candles on the market are made from paraffin wax, a product of petroleum refining. A more environmentally friendly choice is candles made from beeswax. Buy them locally to avoid the carbon costs of shipping. Try Bee Natural, LLC in the Reading Terminal Market or pick up one of Vellum Street Soap Company’s candles at any of the local handmade markets they vend at or any of their brick and mortar retailers. To encourage reuse, Vellum offers a $2 purchase credit to return any empty jars so they can be refilled and used again.

Wash Your Clothes In Cold Water

Up to 90% of the energy used by a washing machine goes toward heating water.  Skip the heating and use the cold water setting. This way, you reduce carbon dioxide emission and also keep your clothes in top condition longer, as hot water can make your colorful clothes less vibrant.

Unless you’re dealing with stubborn stains, there isn’t a point in running your washing machine on the hot water setting. If you feel the cold water setting doesn’t do a proper job, you can try the warm setting. 

Draft-proof Your Doors And Windows

Cold air enters your home through uninsulated spaces that can raise your heating bill and allow not just cold air in, but also moisture. Use weather stripping and/or caulking to seal windows and door frames. Hang thermal curtains which not only block drafts but also noise.  Use a cloth or plastic draft stopper on doors. Cloth draft stoppers, also called door snakes, can be simple cloth tubes filled with batting or decorative doggy-shaped draft blockers.

If you are a homeowner, consider upgrading to triple-insulated windows in which glass panes are spaced apart and hermetically sealed, leaving an insulating air space. Yes, they are pricey, but, in the long run, they reduce your heat bill and improve your energy efficiency.  They reduce energy loss by as much as 30% to 50%.

Another consideration is how the windows operate because some operating types have lower air leakage rates than others, which will improve your home’s energy efficiency. Windows that are hinged a the top and open outward or hinged at the bottom and open inward both have lower air leakage than sliding windows. 

Our Commitment To Sustainability

Deborah Solo with a recycling bin.
Solo Real Estate provides free recycling bins to tenants, owners, and clients

Solo Real Estate is committed to sustainability. Our love for our homes, neighborhoods, and city inspires us to take an active role in preserving the environment. Solo proudly provides sponsorship to numerous local organizations committed to environmental stewardship, including PHS, Emerald Wildflower Garden, Hancock Park, and other community spaces. We also encourage tenants to compost through a partnership with Bennett Compost, install green roofs on our properties when possible, and distribute Solo Recycling Bins to tenants and clients. Thank you for joining us in our effort to help meet Philly’s Zero-Waste goals.

Interested in learning other ways you can help reduce your environmental footprint? Check out our article on Four Ways to Minimize your Waste Footprint in Philadelphia or our list on 5 Things Philly Renters can do for the Environment. If you’re a Solo tenant or owner and want to sign up for a special 2 month trial offer from Bennett Compost, please e-mail us!

Fall in Love with Philadelphia

Posted on by Solo Team

If there is one season that brings out the best in Philly, it’s Fall! When the air is crisp, leaves start to turn, and weekends beckon you to rediscover the City’s cultural offerings. Here are just a few ways to enjoy this special season and fall in love with Philadelphia all over again.

Fringe Arts Festival

Fringe Arts Festival 2021, Sept. 9 – Oct 3

This four-week-long, city-wide celebration of innovation and creativity explodes into every neighborhood with more than 1,000 artistically daring performances. Highlights include Bon Appetit, an opera about Julia Child, and Honky Tonkin, a country music satire. Tickets sell out fast. Reserve yours at  fringearts.com

Wissahickon Valley Park - Image: https://fow.org/

Wissahickon Valley Park – Open every day

To view Fall foliage at its most spectacular, visit Wissahickon Valley Park in mid to late October. Explore over 50 miles of hiking, walking, and biking trails, including Forbidden Drive, a wide, car-free road that follows the meandering Wissahickon Creek. Highlights include a covered bridge and waterfalls. Dogs on leashes welcome. Check out the fine dining options at Valley Green Inn and casual dining at Cedars House. Park Entrances and parking at 120 W Northwestern Ave, W. Bells Mill Rd, and Valley Green Rd. 

Mural Arts Walking Tour – Sept 25 

Explore Philadelphia’s Spring Arts District on a 90-minute tour featuring the world’s largest outdoor art gallery this fall. Starting at 1349 Spring Garden St, the tour is led by a trained guide who explains the mural-making process and how each community has participated in the City-wide Mural Arts Project. Tours are limited to 12 participants. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

Chestnut Hill Fall for the Arts Festival – Sept 26

This annual arts festival celebrates the start of autumn by bringing together more than 150 artists from around the country.  Germantown Avenue, between Willow Grove and Rex Avenue, shuts down to traffic as the event transforms the area into an outdoor pop-up park. Stroll down the avenue to shop for art, unique gifts, or enjoy culinary delights and live music. Admission is free.

Gravediggers’ Ball – Oct. 15

Paris has Pere Lachaise, the celebrated eternal resting place of Edith Piaf, Rudolf Nureyev, and Jim Morrison. Philly has Laurel Hill Cemetery, a National Historic Landmark founded in 1863. Known for its monumental sculptures depicting angels lifting the deceased out of their graves, Laurel Hill Cemetery knows how to throw a good party. Their annual Gravedigger’s Ball is a costumed gala held at the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology. The event is their largest fundraiser and proceeds benefit Friends of Laurel Hill & West Laurel Hill Cemeteries to continue their mission of preserving and protecting these historic sites.

This year, proof of a COVID vaccination is required to attend.  Attendees will also be required to wear masks while indoors and outdoors, except when eating or drinking.

One Africa! One Nation Uhuru Flea Market – October 16th 

This Clark Park open-air flea market happens every fall and features handmade crafts, home goods, clothing, food, and more. It is an economic development project of the African People’s Education and Defense Fund . 4300-4398 Baltimore Ave in West Philly.  9:00am to 5:00pm

Shofuso Japanese House and Garden, Through Oct 31st

The Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center, located on Horticultural Drive in Fairmount Park, offers a traditional-style Japanese house and a nationally-ranked garden reflecting the history of Japanese culture in the city. Tour the house, explore the garden, and feed the koi fish in the pond. Visit when the orange hues of fall foliage start to show for a spectacular view. Open Sundays only.

PAWS Mutt Strut. Image: PAWS

PAWS Mutt Strut – Oct. 23 

If you love dogs (and cats) you will want to participate in the 15th Annual PAWS Mutt Strut, a Fall festival for dogs and the people who love them. Proceeds raise lifesaving funds for Philly’s homeless pets. Bring your furry four-footed friend in costume to strut their stuff at The Navy Yard. Enjoy live music, food trucks, costume and talent contests, agility course, paw print painting, a raffle with great prizes, family-friendly activities, and much more! Learn more and register at pawsmuttstrut.org.  4747 S. Broad Street. 10am-1pm.

Pretzel Park Farmers Market – Saturdays through Dec 18

Here’s a great way to walk off your brunch. Visit Pretzel Park Farmers Market, located walking distance from Manayunk’s lively Main Street.  This weekly market at 4300 Silverwood Street features local, farm-fresh produce, cheese, baked goods, coffee, teas, jams, and more. Plus seasonal favorites like cider, pumpkins, apples, and gourds. 10 am – 2 pm. 

Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show – Nov 5-7

The 45th Annual Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show at Convention Hall presents 170 of the finest crafts artists in the United States. This includes furniture, ceramics, fiber arts, wearables, glass, jewelry, leather, basketry, metal, paper, wood, and mixed media.  Take advantage of the opportunity to meet with these talented artists and learn about their processes.  All work is for sale and all proceeds go to the artists. 

Ghost Tour of Philadelphia – Through Nov. 30th

Join the Ghost Tour of Philadelphia to welcome in the spooky season with a candlelight walking tour along the back streets and secret gardens of Independence National Park, Old City, and Society Hill. Your costumed tour guide will introduce you to ghostly spirits in haunted houses and graveyards. Departs from 5th & Chestnut at 7:30 pm.

The Secret Life of Buildings: Boathouse Row

Posted on by Solo Team

The most iconic view of Philadelphia is not Independence Hall, the “Rocky” steps, or even the skyline — It’s Boathouse Row, the National Historic Landmark of mid-19th century buildings nestled along the banks of the Schuylkill River behind the Art Museum. 

History

Philly has an abundance of firsts. It’s home to the first university, hospital, library, and bank. However, few people are aware that our city is acknowledged as the birthplace of rowing for the nation. The building of the Fairmount Waterworks in 1812 and the Fairmount Dam in 1819 altered the nature of the Schuylkill River from a rushing stream to a relatively calm lake that gave way to more recreational use. By the 1850s, Philadelphia had developed a robust middle class seeking a form of leisure. Their solution? Rowing on the Schuylkill River which, at the time, was used to transport coal from the mountains of Pennsylvania. 

The first of the thirteen rowing clubs currently in existence on boathouse row was Bachelors Barge Club, established in 1853. The Bachelor’s boathouse is the fourth structure in the row and it currently houses the rowing programs for Drexel University and Wharton School of Business Crew.

The next rowing club to form was University Barge Club founded by Penn students in 1854. They are the organizers of the annual Thomas Eakins Head of the Schuylkill Regatta. An acclaimed Philadelphia artist, Eakins painted fourteen sculling scenes, the most famous of which, Max Schmidt in a Single Sculling, hangs in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

Undine Barge Club opened in 1856. One thing that makes their building, #13 on the row, worthy of a second look is that it was designed by famed Philadelphia architect Frank Furness in 1882. Made of stone and wood, the boathouse’s exterior features a tower referencing the Undine myth and exhibits bold hues of red and green. In Boathouse Row The Book, the author mentions that Furness “loved using reds and greens in his buildings, the “colors of nature,” he called them. “Nature,” he wrote,  “never makes a mistake in taste.”

Boathouse #13, Photo: Undine Barge Club

Boathouse #14 is of particular note, being the oldest surviving structure built on the row after the city condemned the original flimsy wooden boathouses built along the river. The two and a half story boathouse was designed by cartographer and architect James C. Sidney and was originally home to the Philadelphia Skating Club and Humane Society building. The boathouse with its distinctive cupola retains a lot of its original architectural integrity and now houses the Philadelphia Girls Rowing Club, the oldest active rowing club for women established in 1938. The Undine Barge Club also rented the structure prior to building their own.

Boathouse #14. Photo: Philadelphia Girls Rowing Club
Stella Sokolowska Peters and Betty McManus Wilkins, 1938. Photo: Philadelphia Girls Rowing Club)

Each club on Boathouse Row is a member of the Schuylkill Navy of Philadelphia, the oldest amateur athletic governing body in America. As a governing body, the Schuylkill Navy still hosts many races, including bringing the Dad Vail Rowing Regatta, the largest intercollegiate rowing competition in the United States, to Philly.

Olympic Dreams

Vesper Boat Club, founded in 1865, was a club focused on developing champions.  They produced the first Olympic men’s rowing gold medal in 1900, winning gold again in 1904 and 1964, the only club in the U.S. to produce eight Olympic champions.

Renowned Vesper champions include John B. Kelly, Sr. (father of Princess Grace) and later his son, John B. Kelly, Jr.  Kelly, Sr. won the Olympic single scull in 1920 and 1924.  At the time of his death, Kelly, Jr. was the president of the U.S. Olympic Committee.

In 1970, after a century of accomplishments, Vesper became the first men’s club to organize a women’s team.  Six Vesper women participated in the 1976 Olympics.

Sustainability

Remember when the Schuylkill was dark brown sludge, unsafe for swimming or even boating? Once again, there is a renewed effort to dredge the river. Big Dig Depth Restoration of the Schuylkill is a $4.5 million campaign sponsored by the Schuylkill Navy. 

The objective is to ensure continuing safe access to the river. Silt build-up threatens the ability to launch from rowing club docks along the row and safe conduct by river users. Whether you are a rower, biking enthusiast, or simply enjoy walking along Kelly Drive, the River’s health is crucial to Philadelphia’s environmental goals.

Save the date

This year, the Thomas Eakins Head of the Schuylkill Regatta will be held Oct 30-31st, 8 am-6 pm.  Kelly Drive will be closed so hop on your bike and bring a picnic lunch and blanket to watch from anywhere along either side of the drive. Or bring a sketch pad and discover what inspired painter Thomas Eakins.

Boathouse Rentals

Since boathouses started as social clubs, it’s natural that many of them are available today for private parties, weddings, and business meetings. Several of them have beautifully paneled bars, dining areas, and stunning river views. boathouserow.org has an inquiry form you can use to get in touch about planning an event. 

This article is part of a series titled “The Secret Life of Buildings” where we write about the history and architecture behind Philadelphia’s buildings. We’ve covered row house styles, common Philadelphia brick styles, trinity homes,and star bolts, among other topics. What else would you like to learn about? Follow us and DM us on Facebook or Instagram to let us know!

Philly’s Art Deco Treasures

Posted on by Solo Team

Originating in France in the 1910s, the Art Deco movement was embraced by Philadelphia architects in the 1930s. It was a breakaway from the Art Nouveau Movement, featuring angular, geometric forms. These Jazz Age buildings combined modern style with decorative themes from Nature, Ancient Egypt, Antiquity, and Native American design. It also included curved exterior walls known as “streamline.” 

While Philadelphia isn’t typically known for its Art Deco architecture, our city houses many fine examples of the style. We encourage you to take a walk through Center City to view some of the grandeur of these buildings firsthand and gain a deeper appreciation of Philly’s architectural heritage.

Beury Building, Broad & Erie

When Architect William H. Lee designed the National Bank of North Philadelphia in 1926, the 14-story limestone, brick, and terra cotta structure was considered a masterpiece of Art Deco design. Renamed the Beury Building, it was topped by a three-story penthouse with a pyramid roof.

In 1985, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Following forty years of abandonment, the property was renovated into a Marriot in 2019. The ground floor continues to display an elegant Art Deco archway with magnificent windows. 

Lee also designed many of Philadelphia’s opulent Art Deco movie palaces. Although most are gone, several remain including the Sedgewick, Anthony Wayne, the Bryn Mawr Film Institute, and the Hiway.

PSFS, 12th & Market

In 1932, the first skyscraper in the International Style in the United States, the Philadelphia Savings Fund Society (PSFS) was greeted with both praise and criticism. Designed by architects William Lescaze and George Howe, some felt it was too sterile.

The 36-story building was a radical departure from the traditional Greek and Italian-inspired bank architecture. Lescaze and Howe went on to design PSFS branches all over the city, including the Logan Branch, now a Citizen’s Bank, a beautiful example of Art Deco at 5000 N Broad.

PSFS Building exterior. Image: Jack Boucher, Historic American Buildings Survey, Library of Congress
PSFS Building exterior. Image: Jack Boucher, Historic American Buildings Survey, Library of Congress

In 1969, the PSFS building received the “Building of the Century Award.” But by 1992, the skyscraper was 85% vacant. It was auctioned off and is now a Loews Hotel. The building is still topped by a red neon 27-foot PSFS sign that can be seen for 20 miles.

Interior of the PSFS building, 1932. Image: Hagley Digital Archives.
Interior of the PSFS building, 1932. Image: Hagley Digital Archives.

Perelman Building, 2525 Pennsylvania Ave. 

Designed by Zantzinger, Borie, and Medary in 1927, the Perelman Building is a registered national historic landmark. It features a stunning, three-story, arched cathedral entrance with decorative windows. The exterior décor includes relief sculptures of animals and people, typical of Art Deco design. 

Perelman Building. Image: Philadelphia Museum of Art
Perelman Building. Image: Philadelphia Museum of Art

Originally built as the headquarters for Fidelity Mutual Life Insurance Company, the building reopened in 2007 as an extension of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The façade renovation received a Grand Jury Award for Exterior Restoration and Adaptive Reuse from the Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia.

WCAU Building, 1622 Chestnut 

WCAU building facade. Image: Wikimedia Commons

The WCAU building stands out as one of the most recognizable Art Deco buildings in Philly. Designed by Harry Sternfeld, it was the first building in the nation designed specifically for a radio station. Over the years, it has been a Woolworth’s, the Art Institute of Philadelphia and now it is an Old Navy.

The Ayer, 210 W Washington Sq

Built 1927-29, the Ayer was originally designed by Ralph Bencker as the headquarters for N.W. Ayer, one of the oldest ad agencies in the country. Now a condo, its Art Deco features are still prominently on display both inside and out, including the elaborate bronze front doors, decorative lobby, and the large monumental figures at the top of the building.

Ayer building door details. Image: Newyorkitecture
Ayer building door details. Image: Newyorkitecture

The Drake, 1512 Spruce St

The Drake. Photo: Brookfield Properties
The Drake. Photo: Brookfield Properties

This 33-story masterpiece is one of the landmarks of Philly’s skyline. Originally a hotel, it was designed by the architectural firm Ritter and Shay.  Who hasn’t looked up in wonder at its iconic terra-cotta dome or marveled at its Spanish Baroque interior? Today, it is an apartment building with a penthouse swimming pool.

SEPTA Suburban Station, 1600 John F Kennedy Blvd

Suburban Station’s Art Deco design owes its opulence to a collection of architects, including Graham, Anderson, Probst & White, and Thalheimer & Weitz. The building originally served as a terminal for Pennsylvania Railroad trains. Today, it is an office building and train station, with retail located below. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

30th Street Station, 2955 Market St

30th Street Station Interior. Image: Amtrak
30th Street Station Interior. Image: Amtrak

While the exterior is neoclassical, the interior of 30th Street Station is pure Art Deco designed in 1929-34 by Graham, Anderson, Probst, and White. Now considered one of the last remaining grand stations in the country, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

More Art Deco Architecture

Other fine examples of Art Deco architecture in our city include the Market Street National Bank at One East Penn Square and the Automat Building at 818 Chesnut Street where the first Horn & Haddart Automat opened in 1902. Want to see more? The Preservation Alliance offers Art Deco walking tours in Philadelphia and the next one is on Saturday, September 18th. Visit their website for the schedule and to get tickets. 

The Secret Life of Buildings: Philadelphia Courtyards

Posted on by Solo Team

In a densely populated city like Philadelphia, private courtyards provide a space for gardens, outdoor dining, and socializing with neighbors. Often hidden from the street or gated, they are shared by owners of tiny Trinity houses, stately townhouses, contemporary condos, as well as by residents of apartment buildings. In many cases, they are hiding in plain sight, if you know where to look. 

History

Courtyards date back thousands of years. The earliest known ones are in the Jordan Valley, Mesopotamia, China, and Ancient Rome. They were popular in places with temperate climates like the Middle East and India.

The earliest Philadelphia residential courtyards were constructed in the mid-18th century. In the 1920s and 30s, they experienced a resurgence, appearing in large apartment complexes, office buildings, and colleges. They reappeared in the 1960s and, today, are a highly desirable addition to both large and small townhouse complexes.

In modern architecture, courtyards bring natural light into living spaces. Internal gardens are a common feature in open courtyards—the bright space is a perfect location for sun-loving trees and plants. Open-air spaces allow breezes and airflow to enter the building without the security concerns of open windows or doors.

Being stuck inside for long periods, especially during the pandemic, can be stressful. Courtyards offer a solution by creating a beautiful, private outdoor space that you can use to get some fresh air, talk to a neighbor, or even meditate.

258 S. 16th Street

Walking along 16th Street, you would never know that several of the early 19th-century townhouses share a magical courtyard. Trimmed with twinkling lights at night, the unexpected communal space accommodates neighborly cookouts and celebrations throughout the year.

Clymer Court

One of Philly’s “secret gardens” is Clymer Court at 707 S. Front Street in Queen Village. It contains 13 homes, the oldest dating back to 1744. Newer homes were constructed in 1960 and older homes were restored. The historically certified site is a gated community of Colonial-style red brick row homes featuring a landscaped courtyard lined with cobblestones and brick walkways to each house. 

Old English Village

Located just south of 22nd and Walnut is a bit of Old England, straight out of a Miss Marple mystery. Officially known as St James Place and closed off to cars, Anglophiles will find a secluded collection of Tudor-style houses built in the 1920s featuring a stone walkway lined by tall, flowering trees. Peaked roofs and tall chimneys suggest a county village, not a prime slice of real estate within walking distance from Rittenhouse Square.

Lantern Square

This one is easy to miss but worth finding. The entrance to tiny Lantern Square is hidden in Panama between Camac and 12th. Reminiscent of Parisian homes built around a shared courtyard, these are late 18th-century Trinities that have been converted into apartments. 

Brewerytown Square

Can a suburban garden condo development take root in the City? Brewerytown Square, between 31st and 32nd, and between Master and W. Thompson, is aimed at the city dweller who wants a feeling of spaciousness and security at an affordable price. A gated community of townhouses and apartments, it provides the illusion of suburbia with shared green spaces and shade trees.  

Kensington Yards

Developer Alejandro Franqui of Solo Real Estate, along with the architects at Bright Common, landscape designers at Apiary Studio, and master builders Red Oak, created a complex of 14 light-filled contemporary condos in South Kensington with a shared courtyard. Architect Jeremy Avellino, the founder of Bright Common, who is dedicated to sustainability, used deep energy retrofits to make Kensington Yards a passive energy complex. 

John C. Anderson Apartments

The first LGBTQ-friendly, affordable, senior apartment community in Philadelphia, the John C Anderson Apartments at 251 S 13th St. are built around a large communal courtyard with plantings and trees. This private space, hidden from the street, provides an additional source of light for the apartments and an attractive space to relax outdoors and mingle with neighbors.

Sedgewick Gardens

In 1939, Jacob Lindy built Sedgwick Gardens as a luxury apartment community amidst the large stone houses that characterized West Mt. Airy. Located on the corner of McCallum Street and Sedgewick Street, the complex is built around a large, beautifully landscaped courtyard that cannot be seen from the street, providing beauty and serenity for the tenants.

This article is part of a series titled “The Secret Life of Buildings” where we write about the history and architecture behind Philadelphia’s buildings. We’ve covered row house styles, common Philadelphia brick styles, trinity homes, star bolts, and residential courts, among other topics. What else would you like to learn about? Follow us and DM us on Facebook or Instagram to let us know!

Philadelphia’s Community Gardens

Posted on by Solo Team

This is the time of year when neighbors are harvesting organically grown vegetables in over 400 community gardens throughout the city. They are feasting on sun-ripened strawberries, juicy tomatoes, cucumbers, squash, and fresh-picked herbs. If you are already involved in your local community garden, great! If not, we would like to introduce you to a few of the many community gardens in our city’s diverse neighborhoods.

Liberty Lands

This two-acre park in Northern Liberties has a special significance for Deborah Solo, owner of Solo Real Estate. Deborah helped establish Liberty Lands park, the only large public greenspace Northern Liberties. Currently, Liberty Lands has an entry arbor, 37 designated plots, benches, a Native American herb garden, a butterfly garden, 183 trees, a children’s playground, composting area, sculptures by neighborhood artists, and a colorful mural. 

Liberty Lands is one of a series of community gardens formed from reclaimed urban land in a former industrial area. Previously, it was the site of the American Street Tannery. When plans to convert the vacant factory to loft housing did not materialize, the developer donated it to the Northern Liberties Neighbors Association in 1995.

In addition to educational workshops, the park hosts community events, including Halloween Hayrides, Welcome America Neighborhood Festival, Annual Garden Tour, Birdhouse Silent Auction, and summer outdoor movie series.

Crease St. Garden

Originally, fourteen houses stood in the area now occupied by the Crease Street Garden in Fishtown. In the mid-seventies the City demolished the houses, leaving the land vacant. For approximately 40 years, the lots were completely overgrown with bushes, weeds, and vines, and served as a dumping ground for household trash and abandoned vehicles. 

Crease Street Garden

In 2009 – through 2010, residents organized to clean up the lots and obtained a garden lease agreement with the City. Railroad ties from SEPTA were converted into benches and 250 feet of flower beds and raised vegetable beds turned the former eyesore into a source of communal pride. This year the Crease Street Garden has joined in partnership with the Neighborhood Gardens Trust, a recognized leader in Urban Land Preservation, to secure grants and fundraise to purchase the land the garden is on. NGT will be supporting us in securing government grants for the bulk of the purchase price, but the group needs to raise $100,000 by the end of 2021 to buy and permanently secure the future of the garden. Visit their website to learn more and donate.

Emerald Street Community Farm

Located in Kensington the Emerald Street Community Farm is a communal farming project on the corner of Emerald St and Dauphin St. Started by a group of neighbors in the Spring of 2008, they grow organic vegetables which they share with neighbors. They also have weekly kids activities: Cooking Classes, Kids Gardening and Craftivity Hour. 

Emerald Street Community Farm

Emerald Street Wildflower Garden

Across the street from the Emerald Street Community Farm, you’ll also find the Emerald Wildflower Garden, a garden focused on the ecologic repair of habitat for plants, ants, birds, bees, butterflies, and the humans who are their guests. Jeff Carpineta, Realtor at Solo Real Estate has played a key role in protecting and redesigning the garden, with coaching from his mentors at Mt. Cuba Center where he studies ecological gardening. 

Home to the largest concentration of trees and bird habitat in the neighborhood, the garden features over 50 species of native plants, a mural by legacy Muralist Ras Malik, a gnome house by Ed Guion, and the salvaged stoop from the beloved Rocket Cat Cafe’. Volunteers receive free training in ecological gardening as well as tools, books, plants, passes to horticulture workshops, lectures, and regional botanic gardens. The garden is available for special events upon request. Contact emeraldwildflowergarden@gmail.com for more info.

Las Parcelas   

Located a 2248 Palethorp Street in Kensington, Las Parcelas community garden began with murals that recall the landscape of Puerto Rico, honor community leaders, and commemorate the passing of traditions on to a younger generation. Las Parcelas is a collection of garden spaces, founded by women in a dedicated neighborhood organization, Grupo Motivos, in collaboration with the Norris Square Neighborhood Project and the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society’s Philadelphia LandCare program. 

Las Parcelas. Image: Norris Square Neighborhood Project

Las Parcelas tells a story of Puerto Rican heritage as a part of American history. Economic decline and urban policies created a landscape seemingly devoid of nature and culture, and rife with racial tensions. Through gardening, Las Parcelas attempts to make a positive story of heritage and identity tangible, by displaying culture in a landscape where it was all too frequently made invisible.

A small structure known as “La Casita” (the little house) contains objects donated by older residents that are used as educational tools. There are areas for gatherings, cookouts, dancing, and crafts. It is also a place to invent new traditions for the future. 

In addition to Las Parcelas, the Norris Square Neighborhood project maintains half an acre of community gardens in the area, including The Butterfly Garden, El Batey, Jardin de Paz, Raices, and Villa Africána Colobó.

East Passyunk Community Garden

East Passyunk Crossing Community Garden is a mixed-use community garden located on the campus of Neumann-Goretti High School on 10th Street between Mifflin and Morris. One of the garden’s missions is to foster partnerships with refugees who live in the neighborhood. 

East Passyunk Community Garden members gather in the garden.

The community garden brings together people of different experiences and skills to contribute towards a common purpose. It promotes better physical and mental health through physical exercise and the satisfaction of work, dedication, and perseverance; and contributes to the health and well-being of local wildlife and insects.

Get Involved

Solo Real Estate proudly sponsors the efforts of numerous like-minded community gardens and public spaces including McMichael Playspace, Emerald Wildflower Garden, and Hancock Park. We believe Philadelphia’s urban gardens are an important resource for the community. They increase access to fresh produce, promote biodiversity, and provide recreational areas that help strengthen social connections between neighbors. To find a community garden near you, click on the community garden map compiled by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society.

PHS Plant Swaps are Back!

Posted on by Solo Team


Do you have a plant that isn’t sparking joy? Bring it to Philadelphia Horticultural Society’s (PHS) monthly Plant Swaps at the PHS Pop Up Garden at South Street. This free family-friendly event is a monthly Happy Hour for plants that could use a new life and an opportunity to meet fellow gardeners that can use a $5 margarita.

Sponsored by Solo Real Estate for the 4th consecutive year, the PHS Pop Up Garden on South Street is resuming its popular in-person plant swap programming this month after a brief hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The PHS Plant Swaps offer attendees a chance to swap their unwanted plants and clippings for a new plant to bring home while meeting other plant enthusiasts. PHS will also have Master Gardeners from various horticultural organizations in attendance who will help identify plants and provide tips to keep them healthy. Register to attend the first plant swap on July 20, 2021 by clicking here.

Fellow plant enthusiasts meet up for a monthly Plant Swap at the PHS Pop Up Garden courtesy of Solo Real Estate. Participants bring plants from home and exchange them for plants and cuttings while socializing at the popup garden. Photo: Tom Gralish / Philadelphia Inquirer
Fellow plant enthusiasts meet up for a monthly Plant Swap at the PHS Pop Up Garden courtesy of Solo Real Estate. Participants bring plants from home and exchange them for plants and cuttings while socializing at the popup garden. Photo: Tom Gralish / Philadelphia Inquirer


How does it work?

Arrive early if you wish to be among the first to pick out whatever you want from the swapping table. Don’t bring dead or sick plants, just ones that are no longer perky or that you no longer want. If you bring cuttings, put them in a small bag. For larger cuttings, wrap the roots in a damp paper towel. Label them with the name of the plant and care instructions.

Once the event starts participants will put plants on the table and everyone will walk around browsing and choosing what plants to swap. If you prefer, you can hold onto your plants and try to make specific trades.
Remember, plant lovers expect an equal trade. They are not going to swap their rare orchid for a spider plant clipping. If you want something exotic, bring something of equal value. Only take as many plants as you bring. If there are leftovers and you stay around to the end, you may take more. Those who don’t have any plants to share should wait until the end before choosing a plant. PHS also brings in plants to give away during these events to make sure there’s plenty to go around. If you take home a plant and it doesn’t work out, bring it back to the next Plant Swap.

Plant Swap Schedule

Tues July 20 – Rain Date Mon July 26
Tues Aug 3 – Rain Date Mon Aug 9
Tues Sept 7 – Rain Date Mon Sept 13
Tues Oct 5 – Rain Date Mon Oct 11
*The Plant Swaps will be held monthly from 6 to 8 pm. Come by to swap a plant, meet the Solo team and enjoy beer, cocktails & food until the garden closes at 10pm!

Become a Master Gardener

Do you live in Philly and love gardening? You can become a Master Gardener. The Penn State Master Gardener Program is a volunteer program that educates on best practices in sustainable horticulture and environmental stewardship. The next training class starts in October 2021. 

No prior experience is required. All volunteers go through 40-60 hours of Basic Training in horticultural science. Trainees must then complete 50 hours of volunteer service within their first year to achieve their official Master Gardener certification. Master Gardeners maintain their certification by completing 20 hours of volunteer service and 10 hours of continuing education each year. Want to learn more? Attend an info session and see if this is for you.

Whether you’re a new plant parent or a seasoned master gardener, ultimately Plant Swaps are about community. To see what the excitement is all about, join us for an upcoming plant swap or check out the Philly Plant Exchange group on Facebook where fellow local gardening enthusiasts regularly swap plants, cuttings and share success stories.

A New Renter’s Guide To Philly

Posted on by Solo Team

Philly is a city of neighborhoods. Each one with its unique housing, cultural offerings, and personality. Renting offers an opportunity to test-drive a particular neighborhood without a long-term commitment. And, just maybe, fall in love. If you’re looking to move to Philly, there are many things to consider so we’ve created this renter’s guide to introduce you to the city’s diverse neighborhoods and give you some tips on leasing in Philadelphia. 

A City of Neighborhoods

Society Hill 

This is the oldest part of the City located on its eastern most sector, between Market and South Streets. This charming district features cobblestone streets and brick houses in Federal and Georgian styles, as well as contemporary high rises, with no shortage of fine dining, movie theaters and culture.

Washington Square West 

Adjacent to Society Hill, from 6th Street to Broad, this historic neighborhood is centered around one of William Penn’s original parks. It offers a mix of townhouses subdivided into apartments, hi-rise options and adorable Trinities with access to trendy restaurants, theaters and shops. 

Rittenhouse Square – Image: VisitPhilly

Rittenhouse Square 

Considered the most desirable real estate in the City, the neighborhood extends well beyond the park for which it is named, extending from Broad Street to the Schuylkill and from Chestnut to Pine Street. It boasts the Kimmel Center and several great restaurants and designer shops in town. While an apartment on the Square is typically in a higher price range, there are also affordable options just a block away. 

Take a virtual tour of the large one-bedroom apartment with hardwood floors Solo is currently showing at 1919 Spruce unit 4F in Rittenhouse Square. 

1919 Spruce Street 4F– $1,600/month

Bella Vista

Wedged between South Street and Washington Ave, Broad and 6th Street, the focal point of this neighborhood is known as the Italian Market to tourists and 9th Street to locals. This is where you’ll find a population as diverse as the architecture with an abundance of bakeries, markets and ethnic restaurants. Choose from 19th century properties to new construction.

Italian Market – Image: VisitPhilly

Queen Village

East of Bella Vista, historic Queen Village runs from the Delaware River to 6th Street and from South Street to Washington Avenue. It includes a mix of colonial homes and new townhouses with charming side streets, lively shopping, restaurants and cafes. Plus access to Spruce St. Harbor Park and Penn’s Landing. 

Queen Village – Image: VisitPhilly

East Passyunk

This former Italian neighborhood is sandwiched between Washington Avenue and Tasker Street to the west of Broad. Here, young professionals and artists seeking affordable housing mix with old-timers. Over the years, East Passyunk has become filled with trendy boutiques and has become a hub of nightlife and world-class restaurants. Here, the row house is king and the local community is strong.

Looking for a spacious two-bedroom with central air for just $1,000? Tour the lovely apartment Solo is now showing at 529 Snyder Avenue #2.

529 Snyder Avenue #2 – $1,000/month

University City

Home to the University of Pennsylvania, Drexel University, the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, and Saint Joseph’s University, the housing choices here are varied. From stately Queen Anne homes of Clark Park to the Victorian charm of leafy Powelton Village and new construction in Mantua. Formerly inhabited by primarily students and professors, the area is now a thriving community for young professionals and families.

Identify Your Requirements

Property Manager and Solo agent Sean Rapp offers potential renters some advice on where to start your search. First, “tenants should start by identifying what they are looking for in terms of space, amenities, location, and price range to help narrow their search.”

When looking at potential neighborhoods, consider what’s important to you. Do you want to be within walking distance of restaurants? Or perhaps, having a small green space to entertain or a community garden nearby is something you prioritize. Make a list of wants but be flexible.

“Once you know what you are looking for and identify a property that interests you, the process really starts by booking a tour of the property,” said Rapp. “They can look through our website on the rentals page for options and reach out to set up a time to view the space in-person.”

Love Where You Live

“I’ve rented all across the Philadelphia area over the last 20 years, and experienced all kinds of landlords and management companies,” said Solo tenant Gillian Neff. “Without a doubt, Solo is the best I’ve had. They’re not just responsive, they’re actually proactive in maintaining the property. And the staff are all friendly and pleasant to deal with. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them to anyone looking for a new home in town.”

Solo Real Estate has been renting Philadelphia apartments in Center City and surrounding neighborhoods since 1951. We’re a family-owned company and we are committed to providing exceptional service with a personal touch to all our owners and tenants. Our property managers want you to love where you live, and that means finding the right fit.

Interested in renting one of the rentals we manage or want to learn more about our property management services? Reach out to us!

Cycling In The City

Posted on by Solo Team

May is National Bike Month and Philly cyclists have reasons to celebrate. Our City has made biking safer and more accessible thanks to the lobbying efforts of the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia and Mayor Jim Kenney. We applaud these efforts because biking is good for the environment, your health, and your wallet. Whether you are a novice or an experienced cyclist, we want to give you the tools and tips to stay safe, enjoy the ride, and pedal it out.

Take a class


Indego, Philly’s Bike Share Program, offers a free, ten-minute Learn to Ride video as well as a 90-minute Zoom course on the rules of the road, riding safely in traffic, making sure your helmet fits, planning your route, and more. This class is relevant to bicyclists of all skill levels but is most important for beginners.

The Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia has monthly Learn to Ride classes for anyone over 18, April through October. Whatever your experience or age this class is a positive and encouraging setting to start building your bike riding skills. Don’t have a bike? No problem. You can rent a bike from Wheel Fun, on Boat House Row where classes start. Classes start with learning how to balance and practicing in the Azalea Garden behind the Art Museum before venturing onto the bike path along Kelly Drive. Private lessons are available.

Renting or Buying?


If you are not ready to purchase a bike, take advantage of Indego’s bike-share program, featuring hundreds of bright blue rental bicycles and white electric- assist bikes at over 140 stations around the City, accessible 24/7. You can check out a bike using a mobile app. Indego is celebrating Bike Month with reduced
fees. Check it out at www.rideindego.com/buy-a-pass/#/

Want your own wheels? Bicycle Therapy at 2211 South is a full-service independent bicycle shop. With over 28 years of experience, the shop’s friendly and knowledgeable staff will help you find a bike that matches your level of experience and budget.
​
Transport Cycles, located at Building Bok in South Philly and in South Kensington at 1315 N. Howard St, sells bikes for the serious aficionado, ranging in price from $475 to $1,200. Shop their online store and stop in for a free test ride.

Image: Transport Cycles

Feeling less Lance Armstrong and more in the market for a Schwinn? Pick up your easy rider by browsing the used bikes at Liberty Bicycles or on Facebook Marketplace.

Happy Trails

Over 300 miles of dedicated circuit trails for cyclists, linking Philadelphia with scenic routes to Valley Forge, Bucks County and Pennsylvania Dutch Country are in existence thanks to the efforts of the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia and the William Penn Foundation. When completed, the Circuit Trails will include over 800 miles connecting urban, suburban and rural communities.

One of the most accessible routes is the 120 mile Schuylkill River Trail winding from the City to Manayunk and beyond. Meanwhile, West River Drive will continue to be a cyclist’s paradise, devoid of cars, until Labor Day 2021 when it will revert to its former schedule of being closed to traffic only on Saturdays and Sundays.

The best way to experience these trails is to participate in rides sponsored by the Philadelphia Bicycle Club. Traveling with other cyclists promotes safety, as well as deepening your knowledge of biking and expanding your social horizons. Besides weekly group rides, starting from the Art Museum, the Bike Club offers longer monthly rides with opportunities to explore intriguing destinations.

On May 21 st, the Bike club hosts a 3-day tour of the Susquehanna Valley, cycling through the countryside and quaint towns. Experience the Lebanon Valley Rail Train on June 12th and on August 7th the annual Chocolate Tour pedals through Amish country to benefit the treatment of pediatric cancer at CHOP and the Hershey Medical Center. Want to escape the heat? Consider the August 29 Brandywine Tour through horse farm country in Chester County. For all Philadelphia Bike Club events, visit their event calendar.

Safer Streets/Safer Bikes


When Mayor Kenney ran for office, he pledged to create 40 miles of protected bike lanes by 2026. As a result, Philly has its first raised bike lane, over six feet wide, with a concrete buffer on North American Street. Plans are also underway to make Washington Street in South Philly safer for cyclists by reducing the five-lane road to three lanes with a protected bike lane.

American Street – Image courtesy of Philadelphia Bicycle Coalition

To protect your bike from theft, you need more than a good lock. Record your bicycle’s serial number and take photos of yourself with your bicycle, so you can prove ownership if it is stolen. Call your police district to see if they offer bicycle registration services. Besides the best lock, you can afford, consider GPS tracking devices for bike owners. Your local bike shop will help you identify the best products to keep your bike safe.

After a year of pandemic isolation, we encourage you to take advantage of Philly’s abundant cycling trails, classes and clubs. Cycling is good for your health and it’s great for our City.