It is good to see this project progress in such a short period of time. I hope that this is being documented for future use by others who may be interested in similar projects. There isn't a whole lot of publicly accessible information on rehabilitating houses like this, especially when they are in this type of condition. Showing people how it could be done, and the costs associated with doing it, may inspire others to jump on board.
This is exactly the type of redevelopment activity that is needed to continue on the West Side. It is great to see an abandoned, unwanted house on Putnam being repaired and restored to a comfortable, modern dwelling rather then letting it deteriorate further and eventually being demolished. There are several old homes on the West Side that are waiting to be discovered and rehabilitated. I would like to see more rehabilitation of the existing old housing stock throughout the West Side. Some of these homes are beautiful architectural gems.
A local website or co-op with info about the local housing stock, suppliers and contractors is probably well overdue. A place to share info on renovating these grand old places. Misery does love company.
Um, Brad, this week provided an all too educational moment. A construction worker fell and died. So you and your students had darned well better know and observe OSHA regulations about eye protection, fall protection, asbestos removal, hard hats, and so on.
I think this is a great learning experience for the students, especially those who may never have worked on a real house. At my school I am currently taking a class where we rehabiliate a West Philadelphia row house, and then sell it to a first time home owner. The class has been a wonderful experience for both students with a background in design, and the majority of the class which is filled with Wharton Business students, many of whom had no clue what drywall was! It seems like this idea could be implemented at the local colleges as well, it provides students with real experience and education on how to actually do the work involved in construction and rehabiliates a formerly distressed property.
Love your publication- Like to see BR at the Jewish Center on Delaware where the crowd starts the day as early as 6am. Also in the lobby of the Rath Building. I know it would be well received. I'm guessing Bruce Fisher would need to sign off on it...
Report this