Fishtown Urby Brings New Urban Energy to Philadelphia<

Fishtown Urby introduces a fresh architectural character to one of Philadelphia’s most energetic neighbourhoods, shaped by the human-centered vision of Concrete Amsterdam. The project blends contemporary design with historical context, creating a residential experience defined by community, creativity, and strong urban engagement. Designed as a five-story brick ensemble with expressive cut-outs, the building reshapes how residents interact with their surroundings while maintaining the distinctive identity of Fishtown. This collaboration continues the long-standing partnership between Urby and Concrete Amsterdam.

Urban Form Rooted in Local Character

The building’s monolithic brick mass is softened by carefully sculpted cut-outs that expose lighter materials and warm tones, giving the structure a dynamic presence. Inspired by the industrial heritage of warehouses and brick townhouses, the façade balances solidity with visual openness. Large dark-gray windows wrap around the exterior in rhythmic patterns, allowing abundant natural light to reach the interiors while maintaining acoustic comfort near the elevated train.

Each window’s transom height aligns with interior functions, creating subtle variations that enhance both privacy and expansive views. These details contribute to the building’s sense of refinement, helping Fishtown Urby sit confidently within the neighbourhood while establishing its own architectural identity.

Interior Experience and Community Spaces

Inside, apartments follow Urby’s established principles of efficient layouts and balanced proportions. Open flows and thoughtful spatial planning make units feel larger than their footprints, delivering a surprisingly spacious living experience. The design emphasizes daily comfort, reducing visual clutter and encouraging residents to adapt the spaces to their personal rhythms.

Community amenities create a sequence of social anchors throughout the building. Courtyards designed by Bas Smets introduce lush planting, calm light, and pockets of gathering space along North Front Street and Hope Street. A fifth-floor communal terrace and an intimate speakeasy expand the building’s social character, offering panoramic views over Philadelphia.

Landscape and Street-Level Connectivity

The main courtyard opens directly toward North Front Street, creating a seamless transition from sidewalk to garden. Its green stucco walls and generous landscaping form a sheltered environment that softens the bustle near the elevated train. A second courtyard along Hope Street brings light and air into a narrower street, complete with BBQ areas and a dog park that strengthen community interaction.

Retail spaces activate the street edges, ensuring a lively pedestrian experience that anchors the project within the broader urban ecosystem. These ground-level functions help integrate Fishtown Urby into the daily life of the neighbourhood.

Art as Identity

Fishtown’s artistic heritage becomes part of the building through a monumental mural curated by Street Art Today and created in collaboration with Dutch tattoo artist Henk Schiffmacher. The sliced façade along Cecil B. Moore Avenue forms a dedicated art canvas, infused with Dutch blue tones and layered narratives that honour the neighbourhood’s creative spirit. This integration of public art elevates the overall design and deepens the project’s cultural resonance.

In its layered architecture, courtyards, interiors, and mural-filled facades, Fishtown Urby reflects the ongoing collaboration between Urby and Concrete Amsterdam, demonstrating how residential design can reinforce community connections while embracing the identity of its urban setting.

Technical Sheet