Historic Tudor Revival charm in the heart of University City
Garden Court Condominium, a Tudor Revival gem completed in 1920, stands as a testament to Philadelphia's rich architectural heritage. This 6-story building houses 140 units, offering residents a blend of historic charm and modern convenience. Located in the vibrant Garden Court neighborhood of West Philadelphia, the condominium is part of a community that was once hailed as "the most exclusive location in West Philadelphia" by the Philadelphia Inquirer. Today, it continues to be a sought-after address, particularly among graduate students, post-doctoral researchers, and faculty members of nearby universities. The building's distinctive half-timbered exterior and steeply pitched gable roofs harken back to a bygone era, while its interior spaces have been thoughtfully updated to meet contemporary living standards.
Spacious layouts with period details and modern updates
Garden Court Condominium offers a range of unit sizes to suit various needs, from cozy one-bedrooms to expansive four-bedroom apartments. The one-bedroom units, spanning 775 to 958 square feet, typically feature one bathroom and are priced around $200,000. These units often boast original oak flooring, high 9-foot ceilings, and large windows that flood the space with natural light.
Two-bedroom units, ranging from 1,231 to 1,694 square feet, come with one or two bathrooms and are priced around $280,000. Many of these units have been thoughtfully updated while retaining charming period details. For instance, some feature decorative fireplaces with built-in shelving, dimmable recessed lighting, and spacious dining areas with corner cabinets.
The three-bedroom units are approximately 1,900 square feet and typically include two and a half to three bathrooms. These larger apartments often have gracious hallways wide enough to accommodate home office setups or reading nooks.
For those requiring even more space, the four-bedroom units measure between 2,226 and 2,227 square feet, with two to two and a half bathrooms. These expansive apartments are perfect for families or those who need extra room for a home office or guest accommodations.
Throughout the building, many units have been updated with modern amenities while preserving their historic character. Some apartments feature newly renovated kitchens with custom cabinetry, high-end appliances, and elegant finishes like soapstone countertops. Bathrooms in renovated units often include walk-in showers with subway tile, built-in shelving, and vintage-inspired fixtures that complement the building's heritage.
Many units in Garden Court Condominium retain original features such as leaded glass windows, golden oak flooring, and high ceilings. Modern updates often include energy-efficient double-pane windows, updated electrical systems, and in-unit washer and dryer hookups. Some apartments offer unique touches like motion-activated lighting in hallways or custom blinds throughout.
Regardless of size, all units benefit from the building's radiator heating system, with water and heating costs included in the HOA fees. This adds value and predictability to residents' monthly expenses.
Elegant common spaces and modern conveniences
Garden Court Condominium offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities that cater to a variety of lifestyles. The building's crown jewel is its indoor swimming pool, featuring exquisite tile work that harkens back to the condominium's 1920s origins. This heated pool provides year-round relaxation and exercise opportunities for residents.
For fitness enthusiasts, the well-equipped fitness center offers a range of cardio and strength training equipment, allowing residents to maintain their workout routines without leaving the building. After a workout, residents can unwind in the lounge or entertaining space, perfect for socializing with neighbors or hosting small gatherings.
The condominium boasts a community library, a quiet retreat for book lovers and those seeking a peaceful study space. This "bulging library" is well-stocked and provides a cozy atmosphere for reading or working.
One of the most unique features of Garden Court Condominium is its series of koi ponds scattered throughout the property. These serene water features add a touch of tranquility to the outdoor spaces, creating pleasant areas for relaxation and contemplation.
For cyclists, the building provides secure bicycle storage, a convenient amenity in this bike-friendly neighborhood. Each resident also has access to a small storage unit, helpful for those needing extra space beyond their apartments.
The building's common areas are secured with keyed entrances and elevators, providing peace of mind for residents. On-site management ensures that the property is well-maintained and that residents' needs are promptly addressed.
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the building's proximity to walking and biking trails, while those who prefer to stay in can enjoy the convenience of trash pickup services.
While individual units may vary in their specific features, many apartments in the building come equipped with modern appliances including dishwashers, microwaves, refrigerators, and ranges. Some units boast updated kitchens with stainless steel appliances, adding a contemporary touch to the historic setting.
The combination of these amenities creates a living environment that honors the building's historic roots while providing the conveniences expected in modern urban living.
A vibrant, walkable community with academic flair
Garden Court Condominium is situated in the heart of the Garden Court neighborhood, a charming and walkable area in West Philadelphia known for its tree-lined streets, diverse community, and proximity to major universities. This vibrant neighborhood offers a perfect blend of residential tranquility and urban convenience, making it a favorite among students, academics, and professionals alike.
The area's academic influence is evident, with the University of Pennsylvania and the University of the Sciences nearby. This proximity brings a youthful energy to the neighborhood and ensures a constant influx of diverse cultures and ideas. The partnership between local schools and universities, such as the 50-year collaboration between Henry C. Lea School and UPenn, underscores the community's commitment to education at all levels.
Culinary enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in the neighborhood. Reanimator Coffee, a local favorite, offers a perfect spot for morning caffeine fixes or afternoon study sessions. For those seeking international flavors, Abyssinia serves up delicious Ethiopian cuisine in a budget-friendly, shareable format. The Greek Lady, just a short walk away, is known for its lamb and chicken gyro sandwiches, salads, and Philly-style hoagies.
Green spaces abound in the Garden Court area. Barkan Park, a small public space with playgrounds, is perfect for families with young children or those seeking a quiet outdoor retreat. Malcolm X Memorial Park, stretching across multiple blocks, offers more extensive grounds for recreation, hosting festivals and music events during the summer months.
For everyday necessities, residents have several options. The Fresh Grocer of 56th & Chestnut, about a mile and a half away, provides a full-service supermarket experience. Closer to home, smaller markets like Cedar Food Market and Quick Stop Deli offer convenient options for groceries and essentials.
The neighborhood's artistic spirit is evident in the colorful murals that adorn many buildings, part of the city's mural program. These public art installations add character and vibrancy to the streetscape, making even a simple walk around the block an visually engaging experience.
Community engagement is strong in Garden Court, with organizations like the Garden Court Community Association fostering a sense of neighborliness and promoting local welfare. Their efforts in maintaining community gardens and supporting local tennis courts contribute to the area's quality of life.
While the neighborhood has a distinctly residential feel, it's not far from more bustling commercial areas. The nearby 52nd Street corridor offers a mix of small businesses, eateries, and services, while University City to the east provides even more dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
The Garden Court neighborhood strikes a balance between its historic roots and contemporary urban living, offering residents a unique slice of Philadelphia life that combines academic influence, cultural diversity, and community spirit.
Well-connected with multiple transit options
Garden Court Condominium enjoys a prime location with excellent transportation links, making it easy for residents to navigate both the immediate neighborhood and the greater Philadelphia area. The area's comprehensive public transit network eliminates the need for car ownership for many residents, though those with vehicles will find the location convenient for major routes.
Public transportation is readily accessible, with several bus stops within a short walk of the condominium. The Spruce St & 46th St stop, less than five minutes away, serves the route running from Penn's Landing to Wycombe or 61st & Pine. Just a bit further, at 48th St & Spruce St, residents can catch buses to 50th-Parkside and Pier 70, as well as the Penn's Landing route.
For those preferring rail transit, the Baltimore and 46th Street station of the SEPTA Subway & Trolley system is about a five-minute walk from the condominium. This station serves Route 34, providing quick access to Center City and other parts of Philadelphia.
Cyclists will appreciate the neighborhood's bike-friendly infrastructure. The area boasts numerous bike lanes and trails, making it easy and safe to commute or explore the city on two wheels. The condominium's bike storage facilities further encourage this eco-friendly mode of transportation.
Walking is a viable option for many daily needs, with numerous amenities, shops, and restaurants within easy strolling distance. The tree-lined streets and well-maintained sidewalks make for pleasant pedestrian experiences.
For those times when a car is necessary, major roads are easily accessible. The condominium's location provides relatively quick access to I-76, which connects to other major highways and facilitates travel throughout the region.
Air travelers will appreciate the convenience of Philadelphia International Airport, which is about an 8-mile drive from the condominium, typically reachable in around 20 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
The combination of walkable streets, extensive public transit options, and easy access to major roads makes Garden Court Condominium an ideal home base for those who value connectivity and convenience in their urban lifestyle.
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Quantarium
Current List Price
Sold Price
Area Factors
Low Crime
Crime Score®
4/ 10
Biker's Paradise
Bike Score®
99/ 100
Walker's Paradise
Walk Score®
93/ 100
Excellent Transit
Transit Score®
82/ 100
Sources: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Walk Score
Sources: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Walk Score
WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Powered by CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks. Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Environmental risk data is provided by First Street Foundation® and is designed to approximate risk and not intended to include all possible scenarios.
Parks in this Area
Spruce Hill Bird Sanctuary
4 min walk
Walnut Hill Community Playground
6 min walk
Barkan Park
7 min walk
Playground
Clark Park
9 min walk
Basketball
Trails
Playground
Max Paul Park
10 min walk
Malcolm X Park
11 min walk
Playground
Events
Cedar Park
12 min walk
Playground
Lee Cultural Center Park
15 min walk
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Bike Trails
Kingsessing Recreation Center
2 min drive
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Pool
Schools
Source:
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Disclaimer: Please note that this building may not be in these schools' attendance zones.
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