SALT DESIGN STUDIO is working with JKRP Architects on a new mixed-use, development on the site of the former Frankford Chocolate Factory at S. 21st Street and Washington Avenue, south of Center City. The project is unusual and complex due to being entirely over an underground parking structure, and the tight location between two buildings. SALT’s scope involves the design of public gathering spaces, an occupiable green roof and a variety of site amenities. We integrated a series of creative design strategies to address the unique challenges of this site, and reinvigorate this neighborhood bordering a commercial-industrial district. A new ‘woonerf’ (Dutch term for a pedestrian street) will function as the primary social corridor for the development, creating an active public space that knits the two buildings together.

Due to the site’s underground infrastructure that limits soil depth for planting, the design incorporates large curvilinear raised planters that provide connected root zones for trees and create multiple opportunities for seating throughout the woonerf. The planters define the pedestrian realm with a signature landscape element, and provide an attractive green buffer between the residential and commercial uses along the street. They feature a multi-layered palette of native trees, shrubs, perennial grasses and groundcovers to mitigate urban heat island and add four-season interest to the site. Paving and planter walls include interpretive graphics showcasing the cultural and physical history of the Frankford Chocolate Factory. Additional site amenities include a selection of fixed and moveable furniture, bike racks, lighting, and custom artist murals.

Client: OCF Realty

Status: Under Construction

Collaborators: JKRP Architects, Guy Engineering