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Introduction ::

Located in one of Philadelphia's finest historic districts, this 4,000 sq ft residence of the late Frank Weise, AIA & celebrated Philadelphia architect, is a dream home opportunity for a visually minded new owner who is ready to add their personal artistic expression to this novel structure. Explore the creative opportunities contained in this fascinating and provocative residence.

Work on the residence of visionary architect Frank Weise started in the mid 1950's and soon became an evolving creative process of ideas that culminated in this timeless architectural masterwork. The Weise residence clearly represents a place where he lived and worked, where he literally changed, remodeled, rebuilt, added to and subtracted from on an almost daily basis.

Its four tiers of arched windows juxtaposed against a soaring red mansard roof inspires an almost mystic quality that compels us to discover a new way of seeing the link between spirit and matter in the dwellings that shelters us. Timeless architectural patterns reveal reverence for the home, the community and the environment.

Because of his love of craft and curved forms, Mr Weise is mentioned as an architect who shared his viewpoint with the Finnish modernist, Alvar Aalto. Frank Weise's body of work remains a powerful monument of vision, originality and self-expression.

Property Description ::

Two Pillars at the entrance symbolize the powerful energies of classical columns. Enter adjacent to the ground level carport into a large reception hall. Contained by the systematic rhythm and intimacy of this space, we are prepared for the next level of soaring, monumental space. A full wall stacked as a honeycomb of arched windows, a mezzanine library surveying the interplay of form and function, and the axis of an ascending column of intertwined private and public staircases - creates a dramatic visual experience.

Upper level private spaces consists of sculpted ceiling, wall, and floor motifs punctuated with polygon and curved windows that face in all directions, creating luminous view and mild breezes. Two fireplaces are executed in his unique modern language of imagination and design.

Rooftop landing room with sliding doors is prepared to receive a spacious deck and offers a panoramic view of the Center City skyline.

Property Highlights ::

Brief Biography ::

Mr. Weise was born in Brooklyn. He studied architecture and graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 1942. He completed his advanced studies in Architecture at Harvard University with the great modernist Walter Gropius, and later attended the celebrated Black Mountain College sharing the limelight with other exceptional artists and writers of his time.

He taught design and architecture at the University of Pennsylvania, Cornell University, University of Michigan, and Moore School of Art. Mr. Weise received extensive professional experience with the revered architect Louis Kahn and developed a personal practice designing numerous houses, offices, and facilities throughout Philadelphia and the suburbs during a career spanning more than half-century. Additional drawing of this residence are included in the University of Pennsylvania Architectural Archives.

Features :: Enormous Potential For Personal Adaptation

Lot Size :: 26.66' x 38.0'

Taxes :: $ 5,269 - City Records

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