September 9-15, 2004

cityspace

Hospital Chic

photo by Jonas Raab

Once, people went there to be treated for infectious diseases or broken bones. Soon, others will call that same place home.

Last month, developers announced that the site of the former and long-since vacant Metropolitan Hospital — Central Division on Race between Seventh and Eighth streets will soon morph into yet another luxury living space: MetroClub Condominiums.

Developer Ron Caplan along with Lubert Adler Partners are heading the $30 million project. Rather than tearing the building down, they play to convert the former hospital into 129 condos ranging in price from $250,000 to more than $800,000. (When Metropolitan closed under a pile of financial woes in August 1993, it was called Cooper Hospital/Center City. In a previous incarnation, it was also named Franklin Square Hospital.)

The 88 one-bedroom condos range from 850 to 2,300 square feet; the 27 two-bedrooms from 1,000 to 2,250 square feet; and the 14 penthouse spaces (both one and two bedroom) are anywhere from 800 to 1,800 square feet.

The exterior mimics that of the neighboring Police Department Roundhouse headquarters: It has brick covering the lower part of the structure, with mirrored glass curving around upper floors.

MetroClub condos are being billed as unique, but aside from the fact that they're being carved out of hospital space, little really stands out as different from any other luxury condos in the city. They will feature a heated, outdoor swimming pool with cabanas, a Jacuzzi and a fitness center. In addition, MetroClub will offer all-hours security and concierge services.

The construction is meant to help rejuvenate the Franklin Square neighborhood and also to replace the old empty hospital, which has been vacant for more than a decade, with something a bit more appealing to the eye. This begs asking a fundamental question: Is it realistic to be constructing luxury condos in an area when many studies show that for years, affluent Philadelphians have been eschewing Center City for the suburbs?

Despite those trends, Caplan says that Franklin Square could be the next hot spot and, he is banking on the success of condo complexes, such as the nearby GrandView at 1100 Vine St., where units cost as much as $300,000. In a press release, Caplan said the project "will bring long-term growth and stability to an emerging neighborhood."

The complex is scheduled to open in early 2005, though those who have placed an early bid will be able to select their individual condo locations within the building in November.