Among the oldest houses in West Philadelphia this 1764 “twin” was built as worker housing for the former Hunter Mill and is now envisioned to become affordable homes for artists.
Resting well above street level, these houses survived the extensive re-grading that accompanied the development of West Philadelphia in the late 19th century. They are significant as the 18th-century interior fabric is remarkably intact. They are the only structure in this neighborhood expressly cited in the Philadelphia 2035 plan as a preservation priority.
The houses were last owned by artist and horticulturist Kathleen Browning, whose daughters donated the houses to CERT in memory of their mother with the stipulation that they be restored and renovated to provide affordable artist living space.
INITIAL CAPITAL
$450,000 (restoration + renovation for both units)FINANCIAL MODEL
Below-market rent, eventually moving to rent-to-own, with historic preservation easements and split-deed ownership for permanent market stabilization.USE
Below-market artist housing (rental, later rent-to-own)
2 units @ 1,100SF + rear common green spaceCURRENT WORK
CERT is the owner of these houses, following their contribution by the daughters of the late owner. Stabilization work has been completed, including security measures and a new roof. Currently, we are seeking financing and funding to complete renovations.CAPITAL FINANCING
Debt & philanthropyPARTNERS
Redmond Construction LLC (general contracting)
18th Century Restorations (roof restoration)
Kurtz Construction (roofing)
Farragut Street Architects (Architecture)
Fox Rothschild LLP (legal)
