It’s no secret that Center City is in the midst of a
major residential construction boom. Two of the projects --
The Granary and
The Sansom -- were built by Jim Pearlstein's
Pearl Properties and designed by
DAS Architects; combined, they have brought 331 apartments to Center City in the past month. Both developments also boast street-level retail, a must-have in a contemporary infill project. As the residents move into their new apartments, so do the retail tenants.
First up is The Sansom, a project known for its urban ethos -- the development contains no off-street parking for cars but plenty for bikes. The first floor commercial space is already fully leased.
Medium Rare, a steak frites-focused import from Washington, D.C., is currently under contruction. Joining Medium Rare is
Adolf Biecker Salon and Spa.
Meanwhile, up at The Granary near Fairmount, award-winning local chef Marc Vetri is opening
Pizzeria Vetri. The restaurant will serve up pizzas (similar to those at his famed
Osteria) and will offer beer, salads and other casual Italian staples.
The latest tenant is Pennsylvania's first
Unleashed by Petco, an urban-sized big box store providing everyday pet essentials and a wide-variety of natural, organic and raw food selections.
In addition to pleasing pet lovers, Petco hopes to make an impact on the community as well.
"The team will host numerous community gatherings throughout the year for the Granary's shelter pets to find forever homes," explains explains Lydia Bakit with West Public Relations. Unleashed is expected to open in September, as is Adolf Bieker and Pizzeria Vetri. Medium Rare should open later this fall.
Source: Lydia Bakit, West Public Relations
Writer:
Greg Meckstroth