If you’re not overly familiar with the corner of 9th & Buttonwood, we certainly understand. This corner sits in something of a no-man’s land, with the structures at 901 Buttonwood St. not exactly giving an architectural reason to journey to this locale. These buildings have also been severely altered since they first went up, with the facades losing much of their character, while also looking quite a bit worse for the wear. They also sit in a slightly awkward position, which is highlighted by the aerial view of the site.

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The view looking across N. 9th St. of the properties to be demolished
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The view looking north from 9th & Buttonwood
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An aerial shows the lonely buildings in close proximity to a future Rail Park phase

The areas close by aren’t exactly filled with amenities, either. To the north sit two vacant lots: one is slated for an 18-unit apartment building, one is the former home of a handsome train station that recently met the wrecking ball. To the west is the unwelcoming presence of the yet-to-be-realized future phase of the Rail Park, creating something of a physical barrier to the site. To the south is a row of commercial properties, with Callowhill St. in the distance at the peak of its highway-like glory. While there are plans for 63 units close by, this isn’t exactly a hotbed of development.

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The view looking towards Spring Garden St., with two empty spaces
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The view looking west down Buttonwood
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A massing drawing gives an idea of what's in store

In what likely comes as little surprise, these properties have been purchased and are slated to go, with demo permits joining a previous zoning permit issued for a seven-story building that would include 40 units. This mixed-use project designed by Parallel Design Studio (they sure are busy around here!) will include 11 car parking spaces on the ground floor, along with a commercial space at the corner of 9th & Buttonwood. We expect to see a contemporary building rise here based on the initial plans, which show off bay windows and a roofdeck that should feature pretty stunning views of the skyline.

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A look at the front facade shows off the bay windows
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Ground level parking for 11 cars will be accessed on 9th St., with a commercial space taking up the corner spot
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The Willow Steam Generation Plant, still awaiting its time to shine

We are loving the further injection of residential life in between Callowhill and Spring Garden Streets, which is one of the more intriguing areas in the city. And speaking of intriguing, if you look at the south-facing photo above, you might recognize the Willow Steam Generation Plant, which has already received construction permits for 69 units and a sit-down restaurant in the long-vacant structure.

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Another view of the building, slated for 69 units

While there we no obvious signs of activity, we couldn’t help but look up and imagine this colorful and glowing at night in the near future. And with everything taking place up and down the nearby blocks, we would imagine many more folks will be familiar with this neck of the woods in the coming years.