SaveParkside.com — Save 4204-06 Parkside Avenue

A Building With History

Built in 1895 — Part of the Parkside Historic District

1954

Today

4204 and 4206 Parkside Avenue are designated significant buildings within the Parkside Historic District, listed on the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places since December 2009 and on the National Register since 1983.

These Victorian twin mansions were built during the wave of development that followed the 1876 Centennial Exposition. German-American brewer Frederick A. Poth spearheaded the transformation of Parkside Avenue from fairground fringes into an elegant residential boulevard, commissioning architects like H.E. Flower, Angus Wade, and Willis Hale to design homes featuring Flemish gables, copper bay windows, terra-cotta cornices, and orange Pompeiian brick.

The buildings have stood vacant for over 15 years and have suffered fires and structural damage. Without intervention, these irreplaceable pieces of Philadelphia's architectural heritage will be lost forever.

National Register 1983 Phila. Register 2009 Built 1895 Victorian / Flemish Revival

This rehabilitation project represents more than just a building save—it's an investment in the future of the Parkside neighborhood. Here's why it matters:

4204-06 Parkside Avenue rear exterior condition

Interior entryway showing building deterioration

Interior room with bay window showing deterioration

Historic Preservation

Save a landmark Victorian mansion from collapse and restore its architectural integrity for future generations.

Affordable Housing

Create 16 new homes in a neighborhood that critically needs them, providing housing options at various price points.

Community Investment

The developer has proven expertise with four successful rehab projects on Parkside and Viola streets, delivering quality results.

Equity & Inclusion

More neighbors means a more diverse, vibrant community. Progress requires welcoming new residents, not gatekeeping our park.

This Owner Has Done This Before

The developer behind this project has a proven track record of transforming neglected historic buildings into thriving residences. Over the past decade, they have completed successful rehabilitation projects on both Parkside and Viola streets, each time breathing new life into long-vacant or deteriorated structures.

He was able to complete these projects because he didn't face opposition from a handful of neighbors who would rather watch historic gems wither into rubble than welcome a few new families to share the park with. The Parkside neighborhood has always grown and evolved. Progress isn't a threat—it's the only way to ensure our community thrives.

Before

After

Completed

4262 Parkside Avenue

7-Unit Residential

Fully rehabbed after a fire nearly caused it to collapse. Now thriving with seven families.

Before

After

Completed

4246 Parkside Avenue

6-Unit Residential

Another Parkside mansion brought back from the brink of demolition by neglect.

Before

After

Completed

4253 Viola Street

Triplex Conversion

Vacant and neglected for decades before transformation into three distinct homes.

Before

After

Completed

4261 Viola Street

Triplex Conversion

Another long-vacant building transformed into three homes and restored to its community.

4 buildings saved. 19 homes created.

Now imagine what happens when we let the same owner do it again at 4204-06 Parkside Avenue—or what happens if we don't.

Read the Petition

PETITION OF SUPPORT FOR THE REHABILITATION AND ADAPTIVE REUSE OF 4204-06 PARKSIDE AVENUE, PHILADELPHIA, PA 19104

We, the undersigned residents and stakeholders of the Parkside neighborhood, hereby express our strong support for the proposed rehabilitation and adaptive reuse of the property located at 4204-06 Parkside Avenue. This project will convert the existing, long-neglected structure into 16 residential units (8 units per building), providing much-needed housing while preserving the architectural character of one of Parkside's most significant historic buildings.

We believe this project aligns with the best interests of our community for the following reasons:

Preservation of Historic Architecture: This building is a landmark of Parkside's architectural heritage. Rather than allowing it to deteriorate further, this rehabilitation ensures its preservation for future generations while adapting it for modern use.

Addressing the Housing Crisis: Philadelphia faces a critical shortage of housing at all price points. This project creates 16 new homes in a neighborhood where housing demand is strong.

Revitalization of a Blighted Property: The building is currently deteriorating and poses a liability to the block. Rehabilitation transforms it into an asset.

Economic Benefit to the Community: This project creates jobs during construction, increases property tax revenue, and attracts new residents who will support local businesses.

Responsible and Proven Ownership: The developer has successfully completed four major rehabilitation projects in the neighborhood, demonstrating competence and commitment to quality.

Consistency with Community Goals: The Parkside neighborhood has a long history of growth and evolution. This project reflects the values of preservation and inclusion that define our community.

We urge the Philadelphia Zoning Board of Adjustment, City Council, and relevant city agencies to approve the necessary permits and variances to allow this project to move forward without further delay.

Signed by the undersigned supporters:

Save 4204-06 Parkside Avenue

A Small Handful of Neighbors Want to Block This Project.

A Building With History

Historic Preservation

Affordable Housing

Community Investment

Equity & Inclusion

This Owner Has Done This Before

Review the Proposal

Zoning Refusal Letter

Property Photos

Development Plans

Read the Petition

Attend the ZBA Hearing — Make Your Voice Heard!