Best of Philly

2025 Best Civic Win

Scout Buying UArts’ Hamilton and Furness Halls

When the University of the Arts abruptly shuttered in June 2024, reactions quickly shifted from despair to considering what would happen to the institution’s vast real estate portfolio. Over the next year, that puzzle was solved, piece by piece, as various developers (and Temple) snapped up building after building. But then, a win for the little guys: Scout, the design firm responsible for the Bok Building makeover 10 years ago, pieced together a $12.25 million bid for Hamilton and Furness halls, which they plan to convert to art studios and affordable housing for artists. If the Bok is any indication, we’re in for a treat. Read More »

2025 Best Development

The Sixers Staying in South Philly

Would a Center City arena, with its attendant benefits for the economy and transit, have been good for the city? Absolutely. Should it have come at the expense of Chinatown? Absolutely not. Now it’s up to the Sixers and the rest of the franchises to do their part in actually making the stadium district something worth visiting. Build those offices and restaurants and apartments that you proposed when it looked like the Sixers-to-Market deal was all but done. Fix the sidewalks and make it easier to walk from South Philly to the stadiums. And use your political clout to support a SEPTA that’s fully funded. Otherwise, this will all be for naught. Read More »