309-13 ARCH ST #405 Philadelphia, PA 19106

The Hoopskirt Factory is a six-story 1875 building, which once housed the Klosfit Petticoat Factory, and was converted into apartments in the 1980s and condominium units in 2006. Walking through the long hallways, one can imagine the petticoat/hoopskirts swinging from the giant rafters above. The space between each floor is vacuous with soaring ceilings anchored by enormous wood beams--a perfect setting for carving unique residential loft spaces. The units have at least one lofted space and most embrace the rich exposed brick of the original factory. This unit boasts tall oversized windows, allowing east light to flood the space in the early hours, melting to soft natural hues later in the day. Lustrous wide plank wood floors run throughout the space, and a handsome brick wall towers along two sides of the unit. A galley kitchen runs along the back wall with lovely expresso cabinets, a white subway tile backsplash and stainless steel appliances. A laundry closet with stacked units is nestled into the space next to the spiral staircase. The dining area and living room spread out in the open floor plan comprising the main living level. A spiral staircase leads to the sleeping loft, a testament to industrial character with huge beams accenting the wood ceiling and floors. An attractive bathroom meshes contemporary style with old world character and features a white subway tile surround over a tub and shower combination within the natural wood space. Walking through Old City, we are reminded of the late 19th century industrial roots of Philadelphia. Towering brick and concrete facades line the streets and cobblestone alleys, some with names that hint to their original purposethe Castings, The Print House, the Corn Exchange. Old City dishes up thick slices of a history, layering muscular industrialism and modern loft living on its Colonial origins. This is no neat terrine, and the mixture can be surprising Hidden City Today it is a vibrant neighborhood and, as a hub for public transportation, provides easy access in and around the city. It is a historic destination, home to cultural and historic institutions and a wide array of boutiques, cafs, restaurants and retail options. The Annual Fringe Festival is based here, as well as First Fridays where galleries are open to feature their new exhibits. Here is where you can enjoy all the benefits of an urban lifestyle.