What if High Hollow could whisper tales of architectural innovation? It stands here a testament to George Howe’s genius. Howe designed and built High Hollow. It is in the Chestnut Hill neighborhood of Philadelphia.
High Hollow’s story starts with Howe’s studies in France. He was at the École des Beaux-Arts. His thesis there laid the groundwork for this very house. Construction began in 1914. Howe was then with Furness, Evans & Co. The house was completed in 1917 when he was with Mellor Meigs & Howe.
Its design showcases European influences. The Neo-Norman style is particularly evident. A local quarry was even reopened. This was specifically to get the purplish stone for its construction.
High Hollow borders Fairmount Park. It overlooks the Wissahickon Valley. Many consider it Howe’s most significant residential work. Robert A. M. Stern called it often imitated but never surpassed.
The intricate metalwork at High Hollow is by Samuel Yellin. He was a renowned American blacksmith. Mellor, Meigs & Howe frequently commissioned him.
Howe sold High Hollow in 1928. The buyer was Samuel Paley. He was a cigar mogul. His wife, Goldie Paley, was an artist and philanthropist. Their son was William Paley. He founded CBS. The Paleys lived here for 20 years. Then they donated the property to the University of Pennsylvania. The university then sold it to a private owner. From 1995 to 2005, Drs. Martha and Lewis Little owned the home. They tried to preserve its original form.
In 2016, High Hollow was put up for sheriff’s auction.
High Hollow displays Beaux Arts elements. Yet, it doesn’t conform to one specific style. Its stone structure and terraces are balanced by its symmetry. This minimalism hints at modernism. It influenced early 20th-century Philadelphia houses.
The house incorporates local materials. It reflects the surrounding landscape. The purple stone came from a reopened quarry. This shows Howe’s dedication to his vision.
After serving in World War I, Howe designed the PSFS Building with William Lescaze. Many architects still consider High Hollow Howe’s greatest achievement. High Hollow and the PSFS Building show his vision. They stand as landmarks in American architecture.
So as we stand before High Hollow remember the story of George Howe. Remember the reopening of a quarry for a unique purple stone. Recall the influence of the École des Beaux-Arts. Think of High Hollow’s place in architectural history. It all contributed to this masterpiece before us.