The Philadelphia Historical Commission recently approved the first steps of the planned reuse of the Wanamaker Building’s Grand Court, writes Kimberly Haas for Hidden City.
The historic building, which was designed in 1910, is considered a landmark anchor for the long-struggling Market East corridor. It was added to the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places in 1973 before being added to the National Register of Historic Places five years later.
Meanwhile, the first-floor Grand Court became one of only five interiors to make it into the local register back in 2018. The bronze eagle statue inside was also designated a historic object in 2001.
After the Macy’s closure in March 2025, there was a lot of concern surrounding the iconic building.
However, the Historical Commission has now approved various changes to the building as it transitions from being a department store with offices into a mixed-use retail and residential building. This includes new entrances based on the building’s doorways being inserted and exterior tenant signage additions. There will also be a roof deck and pool constructed.
Read more about the plans for the Wanamaker’s Grand Court and other things being reviewed by the Historical Commission at Hidden City.
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