Construction Begins on Lofts at Bella Vista

PHILADELPHIA, PA-Conversion of the landmark Curtis Publishing Co. former printing company into the Lofts at Bella Vista is under way. The developer is locally based Metro Development Co., which will retain many of the building’s original features while adding a 40,000-sf sixth floor to the 120,000-sf building at 1101 Washington Ave. The building dates back to about 1920.

Lofts at Bella Vista, named for its proximity to the neighborhood of the same name near the Italian Market here, will consist of 78 residential condos, ranging from 850-sf, one-bedroom units to 2,500-sf “penthouse” and “villa” units. Pre-construction prices for the units begin in the high $100,000s for one-bedroom units, and two-bedroom units begin in the low $200,000s, according to David Grasso, president of Metro, who adds that early buyers can create larger spaces by combining two units. Like all buyers of new residential construction or conversion in the city, they receive a 10-year tax abatement.

Most notable among the original features being preserved are the 18-foot ceilings and walls of massive windows. Units will be true to loft-style design with exposed brick walls and ductwork and polished concrete floors. Two-level units with loft bedrooms overlooking living/dining areas, fronted by the tall windows, will be constructed within each floor of the building’s first four stories. Larger, single-level units, being marketed as “penthouses,” will occupy the fifth floor; and two-level units on top are called “villas.” Some second-floor units will have outdoor decks, and all villas will have outdoor space off the living room, plus rooftop decks.

Additional amenities include tiled master baths with separate showers and tubs, individual climate control, walk-in closets, digital cable and broadband wiring, 24-hour concierge, a fitness center and resident media room. There will also be secure bicycle storage, and deeded parking in an indoor garage. The architect is Jared Della Valle of New York-based Della Valle + Bernheimer Design, working with Elkins Park-based Polatnick Zacharjasz.