Record Reveals: Scott Erdy on Philadelphia
In preparation for the 2016 AIA Convention, Architectural Record asks local architects about their Philadelphia favorites.
Scott Erdy, AIA, LEED AP
Founding Principal, Erdy McHenry Architecture
Since establishing Erdy McHenry Architecture in 1999 with David McHenry, Erdy’s design work has received more than 25 state, local, and national awards. From the 2001 Southern Poverty Law Center in Montgomery, Alabama, to the 2013 Cornell Teaching Dairy Barn in Ithaca, New York, and the 2014 EVO student residential tower, Erdy’s work has been recognized for the embodiment of both its cultural significance and utilitarian beauty. The firm’s work has helped to pave the way for a contemporary, contextual language in its historic hometown.
Best New Architecture
Our own student residential tower EVO, at Cira Centre South, and Cira Green, the city’s first overhead park that sits on a parking garage between EVO and FMC Tower, a mixed-use building. Make sure you get up to the pool deck at EVO for the best views of Philadelphia.
Best Historic Architecture
The Philadelphia Savings Fund Society (PSFS) building by George Howe and William Lescaze is now the Loews Philadelphia Hotel (make sure you get up to see the distinctive sign). Louis Kahn’s Esherick House in Chestnut Hill, completed in 1961. The cathedral-like Fisher Fine Arts Library on the University of Pennsylvania campus was designed by Frank Furness and completed in 1890.
Also at the University, look for the moat at the modernist residence hall Hill College House designed by Eero Saarinen and completed in 1960.
Best Restaurants and Bars
Abe Fisher and Double Knot are great and recently opened. Buckminster’s is a hip bar with a bit of everything. Cheu Noodle Bar is a small place, but offers the best ramen in town.
Best Hotels
The Courtyard Marriott at the Navy Yard and the Loews Philadelphia Hotel, mentioned above.
Best Museums and Galleries
The Institute of Contemporary Art, Philadelphia, Fabric Workshop and Museum, and The University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology.
Best Shopping
Rikumo is a Japanese design shop with pop-up galleries and home goods. Omoi Zakka Shop and Select Shop 215 are owned by the same women and offer well-designed goods for everyday.
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