After more than half a decade of false starts and long pauses, ground has finally been broken upon the long-awaited Arthaus condo tower project by Dranoff Properties and Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates. The 47-storey, 108-unit, mixed-use residential tower with retail at grade will soon stand tall at the long-vacant lot at 309 S Broad Street in downtown Philadelphia.

Arthaus, as it will appear upon completion, image via Dranoff Properties

The $253 million (USD) development will one day be home to close to 200 people, its family-sized units ranging from 1,600-5,500 sq. ft. Residents will be situated in the heart of the city, close to transit, shops, restaurants, bars, and many of the city's premiere attractions. 

Arthaus, street view from S Broad St, image via Dranoff Properties

Inspired by the Bauhaus movement of the early 20th century, the aptly-named Arthaus has reportedly taken a great deal of inspiration from the notions of functional elegance and simplicity over decoration. This much can be seen from the latest renderings of the project, the various volumes and faces of the glass curtain wall making for what will likely be a truly standout addition to the downtown skyline. 

Arthaus, rooftop pool and greenhouse, image via Dranoff Properties

Beyond aesthetics, Arthaus will provide residents with a host of top-tier amenity spaces, including a rooftop pool and greenhouse garden, and a chef's kitchen with attached dining salon for special occasions. Once complete, Arthaus will be a fine addition to the downtown core, the City of Brotherly Love currently in the midst of an urban renaissance. 

SkyriseCities will be sure to return to this project as progress continues. For more information, check out the associated Database file and Forum thread, and as always, feel free to join the conversation in the comments section below.