Philadelphia Rowhouses
I spent this past American Thanksgiving in Philadelphia. I flew in to meet my family for a long weekend full of eating, and well, more eating. Let’s be honest, it’s Thanksgiving — what else would you expect?
Since we’ve started spending our Thanksgivings in the City of Brotherly Love, I have adopted the routine of going for a long run before the big dinner to prevent that uncomfortable tight-jeans feeling the next day. My aunt and uncle live in the museum District, just steps away from the Philadelphia museum of Art that is home to the famous ‘Rocky Steps’, making it the perfect place to run and explore. I love the neighbourhood for its tree-lined streets and super tight rowhouses, so on this run I took a few snapshots to share with you.
This is one of my favourite streets. I love the extra wide sidewalk, painted façades and arched doorways.
Here’s another shot of the same street, from the other end. I’m a sucker for those black painted doors. and the stoops! — they’d be the perfect place to hang out on those long summer evenings and people-watch.
I think it’s great how each homeowner uses their creative license to completely customize their façade.
Philadelphia is known for its rowhomes. The concept of a rowhouse dates back to Colonial times — their small footprint allowed for many homes to be built on a small plot of land, and their shared walls meant cheap and energy-efficient homes for the early settlers.
But, every once in a while, you stumble upon a house like this that is completely different from every other house around. I’m dying to know what the interior floor plan is like! Don’t you just want to climb up and peek over the wall? (Okay, I know it’s not a wall, but it really looks like there would be a pretty courtyard on the other side!)
I’d highly recommend a visit to Philadelphia if you ever get the chance. It’s a historically rich yet lively city that does not disappoint. even my dog Stewie loved it — check him out here with Rocky right after we ran up all 72 steps.
For Michael Penney’s American adventures, check out his blog post about the homes in Maine.
Photo credits:Kathryn Bala