How many secrets does a skyscraper hold? Look at 1818 Market Street. This imposing structure dominates the Philadelphia skyline. It’s more than just an office building. 1818 Market Street holds a piece of Philadelphia’s architectural history.
1818 Market Street also known as 1818 WSFS Bank Place is a true giant. It stands 500 feet tall boasting 40 floors. Completed in 1974 it was the tallest building constructed in Philadelphia for decades. This was due to an informal agreement limiting building heights. The agreement respected the statue of William Penn atop City Hall. 1818 Market Street broke that tradition.
Think of the cost. Fifty million dollars in 1972. That’s a staggering amount for its time. It was designed by Ewing Cole Cherry Brott now known simply as EwingCole. Walters Associates developed this impressive structure. They also developed the Holiday Inn at 1800 Market now the Sonesta Philadelphia.
The building contains over 981000 square feet of office space. Many major companies call 1818 Market Street home. These include ABN Amro the American College of Radiology WSFS Bank and many more. It’s a bustling hub of commerce and activity.
The building underwent major renovations in 2003. This updated its facade giving it the signature white color you see today. In 2015 Shorenstein Properties purchased 1818 Market Street. They paid 184.8 million dollars. In 2019 WSFS Bank added its logo to the building’s top. This signified their acquisition and rebranding of Beneficial Bank. Beneficial Bank had previously been headquartered there.
So next time you see 1818 Market Street remember its story. Remember the height restrictions. Remember the cost and the renovations. Remember the companies that work within its walls. This building is more than concrete and steel. It is a monument to ambition innovation and Philadelphia’s enduring spirit.