The Philadelphia House: Organic Architecture and Placemaking in Chestnut Hill

A small group of trained architects in Philadelphia created a distinctive residential type that became a landmark during the interwar period. They adapted design principles to express the clients' cultural tradition and respond to the natural environment. This work examines the works of three architectural firms and the larger culture of Philadelphia, which contributed to the emergence of organic architecture.

Format: Hardback
Length: 392 pages
Publication date: 15 July 2023
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

In the early years of the interwar period, a group of exceptionally skilled architects emerged, crafting a remarkable residential style that has become an iconic symbol of Philadelphia. These architects went beyond the conventional pseudo-classic or neo-Gothic eclectic approach, instead adapting the principles and criteria of design to suit the unique cultural heritage of their clients and respond to the surrounding natural environment. To investigate this assertion, a comprehensive analysis is conducted on the architectural works of three prominent Philadelphia firms: Mellor, Meigs and Howe, McGoodwin, and Willing and Sims. Six houses constructed between 1917 and 1928 serve as the focal point of this study, providing a glimpse into the aesthetic appeal and historical significance of these homes and the broader Chestnut Hill neighborhood.

These residences, while visually captivating, also mark a departure from the past, representing a significant architectural innovation of the 20th century, often referred to as "organic architecture." This comprehensive work, featuring over 200 photographs and drawings, delves into the intricate details of these houses, the training and development of the architects, the establishment and growth of Chestnut Hill itself, and the broader cultural context of Philadelphia that played a pivotal role in shaping this distinctive and enduring style.

The architects behind these remarkable homes were meticulously trained in the traditional principles of design, but they were also open to exploring new and innovative approaches. They recognized the importance of incorporating the cultural and environmental elements of their clients into their designs, resulting in a harmonious blend of form and function. This approach led to the creation of homes that were not only visually appealing but also deeply rooted in the local community.

Chestnut Hill, as the location for these architectural masterpieces, played a vital role in their development. The neighborhood was characterized by its lush greenery, winding streets, and picturesque homes, providing a serene and welcoming environment for the residents. The architects carefully considered the topography and landscape of the area, incorporating natural elements into their designs to create a sense of harmony and integration with the surrounding environment.

Moreover, the larger cultural context of Philadelphia played a significant role in shaping the distinctive style of these homes. The city was known for its rich history, diverse population, and vibrant artistic community. This cultural richness influenced the architects' approach to design, resulting in a fusion of traditional and contemporary elements that reflected the city's vibrant spirit.

In conclusion, the emergence of the distinctive residential style in Philadelphia during the interwar period was a result of a collaborative effort between skilled architects, clients with unique cultural traditions, and the natural environment. The works of Mellor, Meigs and Howe, McGoodwin, and Willing and Sims, as analyzed in this study, showcase the fusion of traditional design principles with innovative approaches, resulting in homes that are both aesthetically pleasing and historically significant. The Chestnut Hill neighborhood, as the backdrop for these architectural wonders, played a vital role in their development, providing a serene and picturesque setting for these exceptional homes. The larger cultural context of Philadelphia, with its rich history, diverse population, and vibrant artistic community, further contributed to the emergence of this distinctive and enduring style, making it an iconic symbol of the city.

Weight: 744g
Dimension: 236 x 158 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538172568