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News > Context Winter 2026 > Design Profile: Glassworks

Design Profile: Glassworks

CosciaMoos Architecture
Photos: Joseph Kitchen 
Photos: Joseph Kitchen 

Located two blocks off Frankford Avenue, Glassworks is an adaptive reuse project transforming a once-renowned glass finishing plant and factory into a vibrant six-story, mixed-use development. By preserving the original three-story corner warehouse and thoughtfully integrating new construction around and above it, the design accommodates 103 residential units while honoring the site’s industrial legacy. This striking interplay between old and new serves as a physical and symbolic bridge, breathing new life into the historic fabric of the city, fostering a sense of place, and catalyzing broader neighborhood revitalization and inclusive growth. At street level, lower-floor apartments activate the urban edge with individual sidewalk entrances, encouraging walkability and engagement. To enhance accessibility and support community-focused retail, the original warehouse floor was carefully lowered to align with street grade, creating an inviting, pedestrian-friendly commercial presence. Upper-level units and a large rooftop deck take advantage of sweeping views of Center City. This project demonstrates how adaptive reuse can merge architectural innovation with historic preservation, delivering contemporary housing while strengthening the fabric of one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods. 

Project: Glassworks 

Location: Fishtown, Philadelphia  

Client: Urban Conversions  

Project Size: 100,000 square feet   

Project Team:  
CosciaMoos Architecture (Architect)  

Ruggiero Plant Land Design (Civil Engineering)  

Larsen & Landis Structural Engineers (Structural Engineering)  

J+M Engineering (MEPFP)  

Earth Engineering (Geotechnical Engineering)  

CBP Architects (Interior Design) 

Photos: Joseph Kitchen 

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