Rittenhouse Square, October 9, 2025
News Summary
Permits have been granted for a new single-family dwelling at 524 South 17th Street in Rittenhouse Square. The three-story structure will cover 1,933 square feet and includes various modern design features. The project aims to enhance the housing landscape in this vibrant neighborhood while adhering to zoning regulations. With natural light and proximity to local parks, the new home is set to attract future residents seeking city amenities.
Construction Permits Granted for New Single-Family Dwelling in Rittenhouse Square
The city has issued permits for the construction of a new single-family dwelling located at 524 South 17th Street in Center City Rittenhouse Square. This project, designed to enhance the residential landscape of the area, represents a growing demand for housing options in one of Philadelphia’s most desirable neighborhoods.
The total construction area will span 1,933 square feet across three stories and a basement, as outlined in the development plans by Waybar 524 LLC. This investment into the community comes with a total construction cost estimated at $305,000.
Cost Breakdown and Construction Details
The costs associated with the project include $250,000 for general construction, $20,000 for excavation, $15,000 earmarked for plumbing, and $10,000 each for electrical and mechanical work. The structure is zoned RSA-5, which allows for attached single-family dwellings, implicating a focused development on single residential units.
The lot size measures 14 feet wide by 51 feet deep, which totals 714 square feet. The proposed building footprint will be 570 square feet, ensuring that 20% open space is maintained alongside a 10-foot-deep rear yard, a valuable feature for city living.
Building Specifications
The planned structure will reach a height of 37 feet 6 inches to the main roof and extend to 41 feet at the top of the roof-deck pilot house, conforming to the 38-foot height limit set for primary structures within the RSA-5 zone. Notably, a report has clarified that the height of the pilot house is actually 9 feet 3 inches tall instead of the previously mentioned 3 feet 6 inches.
The design will feature masonry walls at the base, complemented by standing-seam metal cladding on the upper levels. A distinctive west elevation will present a vertical Hardie Plank façade, aligning with contemporary design trends emerging in newer areas such as Point Breeze and Graduate Hospital.
Innovative Design Features
Enhancements in the design include bay-window projections on the second and third floors, as well as a roof deck accompanied by a pilot house that is set five feet back from the street line. Access to the home will be via a concrete stair that encroaches three feet into the public right-of-way along 17th Street. This design is not only functional but also aesthetic.
As for the building’s natural light optimization, the design will feature windows on three sides (east, west, and south), ensuring bright and inviting interiors for future residents.
Community Impact and Historical Context
Situated adjacent to Rodman Square Park and just 0.4 miles from Rittenhouse Square, the new dwelling will provide future occupants with easy access to a wealth of amenities. A report also notes ongoing residential construction at 522 S. 17th Street, hinting at a broader trend of revitalization in the area.
The use of Hardie Plank is historically unusual for the Rittenhouse area, hinting at a shift toward more modern building materials and designs. This project signifies not only a new home but also a step toward contemporary architecture that may reshape parts of the region.
Conclusion
The construction of the new single-family dwelling in Rittenhouse Square is set to bring both new housing opportunities and a modern aesthetic to the historic neighborhood. As details are solidified, local residents and prospective homeowners can look forward to these developments enhancing the community’s character.
FAQ Section
What is the address of the new single-family dwelling?
524 South 17th Street, Center City Rittenhouse Square.
What is the total construction area of the building?
The total construction area spans 1,933 square feet across three stories and a basement.
Who is the developer of the project?
The development is planned by Waybar 524 LLC.
How much is the total estimated construction cost?
The total construction cost is estimated at $305,000.
What is the zoning for the new structure?
The structure is zoned RSA-5, which allows for attached single-family dwellings.
What design features will the building include?
The design will include masonry walls, standing-seam metal cladding, bay-window projections, and a roof deck.
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Key Features of the New Residential Project
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Address | 524 South 17th Street |
| Total Area | 1,933 square feet |
| Number of Stories | 3 stories + basement |
| Estimated Cost | $305,000 |
| Zoning | RSA-5 |
| Building Height | 37 feet 6 inches |
| Construction Type | Single-family dwelling |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
Additional Resources
- YIMBY: Permits Issued for New Residence
- Wikipedia: Rittenhouse Square
- Inquirer: Rittenhouse Square Condo Remodel
- Google Search: Rittenhouse Square Real Estate
- YIMBY: The Laurel Rittenhouse Square
- Google News: Rittenhouse Square Construction
- YIMBY: Harper Square Construction Status
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Philadelphia
Author: Construction CA News
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