Check Out 2nd Thursday in Old Kensington
During our Meet the Builders Tour this Thursday, it also happens to be 2nd Thursday, one of the most happening nights in Old Kensington. It's an evening of new art exhibitions and we strongly encourage that you take in some local art while you're around.
Old Kensington 2nd Thursday Art Listings:
Live!infili! - an exhibition of new sculptures by New York artist Jason Gandy. 6 - 9 pm at Rebekah Templeton (173 W Girard Avenue)
For Live!infili!, Jason Gandy has installed a new grouping of sculptures created out of wood, leather and porcelain. Each piece conceals an aperture: a porthole in the side of a finely crafted miniature ship or a peephole through a wooden skull. The vessels are compelling, however the true beauty of this work is in the vast, reality-defying, inner-worlds.
Ground Play Nexus Members Show, 6 - 9 pm at Nexus Gallery at Crane Arts (1400 N American St)
In Ground Play, Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education invites six artists from NEXUS Foundation to respond to the history and physical space of its Brolo Hill Farm.
Everyone Wants to be Famous and New Blood, 6 - 9 pm at University of Delaware Gallery at Crane Arts (1400 N American St)
“Everyone Wants to be Famous”, in the upstairs gallery at UD@Crane, explores the disconnect and overlap that occurs between identity, media and a skewed or challenged image of self within our contemporary social framework.
Works from Haiti, Mexico and Cuba, 6 - 9 pm at Indigo Arts at Crane Arts (1400 N American St)
Exhibit includes work by: Haitian masters Montas Antoine, Gabriel Bien-Aimé, Jacques-Richard Chery, Prefete Duffaut, Gerard Fortuné, Serge Jolimeau, Dieuseul Paul, Prosper Pierre-Louis, Denis Smith and Pierre-Joseph Valcin; Mexican painters and print-makers, Enrique Flores, Felipe Morales, Fernando Olivera, Mario Romero; Cuban painter Javier Gonzalez Gallosa.
True Fiction, 6 - 9 pm at Philadelphia Photo Arts Center at Crane Arts (1400 N American St)
The photographs featured in True Fiction exist between truth and fantasy, working within the lines of the documentary and tableau genres. True Fiction illustrates the numerous and complex new perspectives in photography by exploring the perceptual gaps between artifice and the authentic experience.
Islanded - New work by Sharka Hyland, 6 - 9 pm at InLiquid at Crane Arts (1400 N American St)
Islanded is an exhibition of drawings made with wire, consisting of flat, net-like structures made from steel and silver wire. Sharka Hyland’s current body of work explores the notion of representing a three-dimensional space on a two-dimensional plane in an alternative manner, outside of the conventional framework of the Albertian perspective.
Who’s Hanging Out in our Office? Bruce Reinfeld
I have a
lways been a lover of the art scene and a quiet admirer of our urban landscape in Philadelphia. For some people it is hard to see beauty amongst concrete and steel. But not for me. It was about 2 years ago or maybe even 3 when Chris and I schlepped into one of our favorite local coffee joints, One Shot Coffee in Northern Liberties. There is always new local art on the walls of the cool cafe. Well, that day we saw this amazing photo on the wall. A color enhanced black and white print of train tracks. We fell in love with it!
Fast forward to today, and Chris and I now own that magnificent print along with another piece by a local artist, Bruce Reinfeld.
Let us tell you a little about Bruce...
Bruce Reinfeld's photography has been shown in galleries around the country - striking images in hand-colored black and white and mixed media prints. He finds his subjects in his travels across the country, but it's here in Philadelphia at Reinfeld's Old Kensington studio that the photographer and musician comes home to reflect.
Where do you live? What is your home like?
"Old Kensington. I live north of Girard on Mascher in a 3500 sq ft warehouse."
Did you grow up here?
"I grew up in Philly near Chestnut Hill and went to University of the Arts."
Can you tell us about your band? Any upcoming shows?
"Just finished recording and mixing a full project with Producer Brian McTear at his Fishtown studio along with Brian Christinzio (BC Camplight), Pat Berkery (Bigger Lovers), and Tommy Ciccone (Jealous Type). Should be released early 2011 with gigs to follow."
What is your favorite spot in Old Kensington to grab a beer or lunch? Any fave hangouts?
"When I am home it is usually Johnny Brenda's, El Camino, Standard Tap, 700 Club, N 3rd, 1 Shot Coffee. I am not sure what the other side of Spring Garden looks like anymore..."
We have both of Bruce's prints proudly hanging up in our office so we can see them every day. They are outstanding. We want to thank Bruce for letting us tour his studio and we wish him the best on his new CD to be released in 2011.
Please check out Bruce's website at:
http://www.highfidelitydisco.com/
FACEBOOK FAN PAGE:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/High-Fidelity-Gallery-Bruce-Reinfeld-Photography/183646567162
Meet the Builders This Week in Old Kensington. Won’t you Join us?
Here are the facts:
New Construction in Old Kensington: Meet the Builders Tour is Back!
Here's your handy schedule:
Your Meet the Builders Tour Schedule
Complimentary refreshments and drinks at each tour stop.
And don't forget, it's 2nd Thursday and we'll be touring Crane Arts, where several galleries will have opening receptions. All in all, a great night to venture out to Old Kensington.
Thursday, September 9th 5:30-7:30 pm
1355 Mascher St
To RSVP to this event, text your email to (215) 650-3454.
Your Meet the Builders Tour Schedule
For next week's Meet the Builders Tour in Old Kensington, we are touring 2 new construction properties, but there's much more in store for our guests this time around. We are really digging into the neighborhood of Old Kensington, because we want to get it out there: Old Kensington is stimulating, cultivated, and ripe for your perusal.
What is Old Kensington? Why should I care?
We'd love to answer that for you on September 9th. Consider it a key part of our tour schedule:
5:30 - Chillax with Snacks & Cocktails - Tour Begins at 1355-59 Mascher St
6:00 - Meet Special Guest and RE Developer David Gleeson (Owner of the Crane Arts Building) Q&A
6:30 - Get to the Point at the Flats at Girard Pointe with Developer Jeff Tubbs
6:50 - Another Sip and Nibble sounds really good right now. Complimentary beverages/snacks at Girard Pointe.
7:10 - Crane Arts Building Tour with the other owner, Nicholas Kripal
We'll be printing out copies of our map for all that attend, just in case you want to roam on your own after the tour.
So get on out here! Here's how:
There's plenty of street parking in Old Kensington. Are you driving?
From I-95: Take the Girard Ave exit (exit 23). Proceed West on Girard. Turn right at American St. Take the 2nd right onto Thompson St. Turn left at Howard St and take the 1st left onto Master St. Then take another 1st left onto Mascher St.
By Subway:
Take the Market-Frankford line to the Girard Avenue exit. Cross Front St and head west. Turn right on Mascher St and head 2 blocks north.
View Meet the Builders Tour in Old Kensington in a larger map
Tee’d Off in Old Kensington: Derisory Designs
We were so thrilled when Dave Lauder dropped off the large brown cardboard box. He watched us as we excitedly opened it. We popped the box open and saw 50 beautiful brand new, bright white, cotton t-shirts with our logo printed artfully on the front of each and every one of them. Derisory Designs did a stellar job! Chris and I had to laugh at how incredibly self promotional this t-shirt idea was, but I promise, we are not megalomaniacs like that song by Incubus (which is a pretty cool song, by the way). We are just shamelessly trying to build our brand. And shameless branding is where Derisory Designs shines!
As a small local business in Old Kensington, Derisory Designs is on several social media portals. That is how I easily found them when I was searching for local businesses. Patronizing quality local businesses is something we are passionate about. It is very rewarding and important to us on a personal level to help other small hardworking business owners, particularly in this challenging economy. Derisory Designs is not only local but extremely hands on, receptive to small orders, they respond quickly and honor their delivery dates. We highly recommend them for quality printing and top notch service.
Derisory Designs
1627 N 2nd St
267-258-8084
New Construction in Old Kensington: Meet the Builders Tour is Back!
The Meet the Builders Tour is back for September. The timing was right for two projects in Old Kensington that have been on our radar, and so, north of Girard we go!
Meet the Builders Walking Tour: Old Kensington
Thursday, September 9th 5:30-7:30 pm
1355 Mascher St
Come join us on a Fun Walking Tour of 2 Old Kensington New Construction Projects where you can actually meet the builder !
Meet builders, ask questions, get insider tips and rub elbows with the pros. Then stick around to enjoy 2nd Thursday in Old Kensington, a night of new art exhibits at nearby galleries, with a tour of Crane Arts Event Space.
Who should attend?
- Rehabbers and Investors looking for tips
- Those who are interested in learning about Old Kensington
- Buyers looking for more information
To RSVP to this event, text your email to (215) 650-3454.
Your information will remain private and we do not spam.
Featuring 2 of the Latest New Construction Ventures in Old Kensington
The Flats at Girard Pointe - 1221-33 N 3rd St
Developer: JD International
Jeff Tubbs from JD International will be walking us through the Flats at Girard Pointe, a series of single family homes that combine eco-friendly design and arts-loving location into an affordable and customizable package.
Project details here.
1355-59 Mascher St
Speaker: David Gleeson
This dynamic new construction is artfully designed and is unlike any other new construction home in the area. Three units are available. For more information on 1355-59 Mascher St, view project details here.
We'll be unlocking the mysteries of Old Kensington for those that are curious about this inspiring and sometimes hard-to-define neighborhood. One of the owners of Crane Arts, David Gleeson, will be our speaker at the new Mascher Street properties. Gleeson is a niche investor rooted in the success of the neighborhood and not only does he invest here, he lives here. He is currently in the process of rehabbing a church in Old Kensington, which will become his new home.
Check out our last Meet the Builders Tour:
If you Build it, They Will Come: Meet the Builders Tour Recap
Beating the Odds at the Flats at Girard Pointe
The odds are at
1221-1233 North 3rd Street...
You'll find an urban oasis that's hard to beat.
Odds that meld 3 desires of today's urbanite: Eco-minded construction, an eclectic atmosphere to live in, a price that's not flat-out intimidating. The Flats at Girard Pointe at 1221-33 North Second 3rd St. in Old Kensington are your chance to embrace the odd - Getting what you want for a price that's right in a creative and rapidly-growing neighborhood. The highlights?
- Just North of Girard and Northern Liberties, this new construction mod-style living experience sets you one block North of Liberties Walk and one block South of Crane Arts Project Space.
- The Energy Efficient Features include Energy Star Appliances, light fixtures, and windows that will make the Flats 20-30% more efficient than standard homes. Built-in insulation with Superior Walls, WaterSense toilets and faucets, Tankless Water Heaters, and a Solar-Ready home to reduce installation costs of solar heating should you choose it in the future. Select from eco-friendly solutions for Countertops/Backsplashes, Zero Voc Paint, and Flooring types: Cork, Bamboo, or Carpet FLOR.
- "Urban Topiary" Living Sculpture composed of over 100 digitally fabricated aluminum tubes with Boston Ivy designed to "bring a playful and energetic feeling to the neighborhood while weaving together public and private space."
- 10 Year Tax Abatement
- 1,500 + SF of Living Space
- Off Street Parking Available
- 1 -2 Bedrooms, 9 ft Ceilings
- Balconies and Urban Garden Sanctuaries
- Custom Landscaping and Sculptural Fencing by PrePost
$375,00
It appears that the odds are in your favor. Join us for a special tour of the Flats at Girard Pointe on our next Meet the Builders Tour in September. Details coming soon!
Luxury New Construction Pre-Viewing September 9th in Old Kensington
You are invited to the opening of the Mascher St project. This dynamic new construction is artfully designed and is unlike any other new construction home in the area. The modern aesthetics inside and out will certainly exceed your expectations. Some of the interior features include natural tone granite kitchens paired with flat panel chocolate cabinets and flooring. The soaring living room ceilings and open wall staircases enhance the visual flow from room to room. There are only 3 addresses available each with 3 bedrooms 2.5 baths, finished basements, garage parking, private roof decks with panoramic city views, a 10 year tax abatement, and many more details to enjoy.
$329,900
Join us on Sunday, September 9th 5:30 pm for a sneak preview. Be the first to know. For more info, contact The Somers. The first 5 people get a free t-shirt.
What’s Life in Old Kensington Like? A Client Writes in.
A few years ago we helped client Taylor Picone buy a gorgeous Factory Loft at the Steel Factory in Old Kensington. He wrote in to thank us and to let us know that life in Old Kensington has been very exciting and extra convenient to all of his favorite spots. Thanks, Taylor!
Dear Somers:
Thanks for taking an interest in hearing from the local folks about the neighborhoods in the area. So far my past two years in Old Kensington living in the Steel Factory Lofts has been a great time. The area has really begun to flourish and there is never any shortage of great places to eat, drink, socialize, and take part in the ever exciting events of Northern Liberties and Fishtown. The Piazza at Schmidts is host to a variety of restaurants and bars from the classy Apollinare, to the great food at Darling's Diner 24 hours a day, and there is always a great seat at PYT to watch the Phillies game on the Jumbotron. Just across the street is Liberties Walk, host to great shopping and one of the best coffee spots in the city, One Shot Coffee, which is a great place to stop before or after your professional quality hair cut at DNA Salon just next door.
Not to be forgotten are all the great local Fishtown bars that each offer their very own unique personalities and plethora of drinks. Visitors to Philadelphia should never pass up the opportunity to see really Philly culture at The El Bar on front street where they can grab a quick Philly Special (Beer and a shot of whiskey for $3) while cheering the in season Philly sports team to victory. Looking for local live music? Try a night at Johnny Brenda's on Frankford and Girard, always a host to great local artists and some pretty famous ones, too!
A great location for Temple students with plenty of public transportation assets within walking distance that within minutes can get you to downtown Philadelphia with access to museums, South Street, Boat House Row, and plenty of other sites.
Overall, living in the Old Kensington/Northern Liberties area comes with all the perks and culture of a tight nit local Philly community while providing you great access to popular tourist areas. A combination of great food, drinks, scenery and people. The budding community of Old Kensington/Northern Liberties is a great place for any age and any profession.
Respectfully,
Taylor E. Picone
1st Lieutenant, FA
Here are two awesome opportunities right now in the Old Kensington neighborhood:
Attention Developers! Rare Opportunity to Build 17 Homes in Northern Liberties
Explore more about Life in Old Kensington. Ready to search for Old Kensington properties?
Battle the Heat with the 90degreez Fashion World Tour
This event is right in tune with our current state of weather. The 90degreez Fashion World Tour brings an evening of fashion, art, music, and networking to Old Kensington to benefit the youth of the Kensington South neighborhood and the Kensington South NAC, a nonprofit organization that helps to improve the neighborhood.
On the runway, look for couture inspired from Brazil, Uganda, and other countries, with designers Genuine Gentlemen, Atal Stella Uganda, Eye Innovations eyewear, and others. Hip hop gospel artist TWyse will perform. The event will also tap its global potential by offering a live streaming video broadcast from 90degreez.com.
90degreez Fashion World Tour
July 31, 6pm
Crane Building, 1400 N. American Street
For questions call Marilyn or Cynthia at 215-427-3463. You can also call 90degreez at 215-200-0652 or visit www.90degreez.com