Project: Historic Society Hill Townhouse
Architecture: LO Design
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
Area: 4000 ft2
Year: 2021
Photo Credits: Round Three Photography
The Historic Society Hill Townhouse showcases how thoughtful design can transform a historic home into a functional, modern living space. Situated in Philadelphia’s Society Hill, this 4,000-square-foot townhouse underwent a lower-level renovation led by LO Design. The project successfully blends contemporary family needs with the timeless charm of a historic structure.
A Bright and Open Living Space
Traditional Philadelphia rowhomes often feature dark and narrow basements, but LO Design broke this mold. They introduced a double-height opening that floods the lower level with natural light while connecting it seamlessly to the upper floors. This clever feature ensures the space feels open and inviting, making it an integral part of the home rather than a tucked-away basement.
A Kitchen Designed for Style and Durability
The kitchen, a centerpiece of the renovation, balances aesthetics with practicality. It features soft white Shaker cabinets, natural slate flooring, and a warm oak butcher block island. Soft grey Quartzite countertops add an elegant yet durable finish. These materials were chosen to handle daily family life while maintaining a timeless appeal. Sculptural Luceplan light fixtures enhance the space, serving both functional and decorative purposes. They define the eat-in dining area, currently used as a play zone, showing how the design adapts to the family’s needs.
Merging Indoor and Outdoor Light
At the back of the house, a stepped lightwell channels soft northern light into the lower level. This architectural feature not only brightens the space but also creates a visual connection to the outdoors, making the area feel expansive and serene. A winding oak staircase links the lower level to the upper floors, completing the unified design.
Through careful planning and creative solutions, LO Design has transformed the Historic Society Hill Townhouse into a home that embraces its historic roots while serving the needs of a modern family. It’s a perfect blend of past and present, offering a space that will grow with its residents for years to come.
