04-03-2025
You could help repurpose UArts' former Hamilton and Furness Halls
The new owner of the historic Hamilton and Furness Halls along South Broad Street is seeking the public's help in redeveloping the ex- University of the Arts buildings.
Why it matters: Scout, the design firm that repurposed South Philly's Bok building, wants to reinvent the spaces to serve Philadelphians, with a focus on the arts and affordability.
Driving the news: Scout is inviting Philadelphians to invest in and support the new project in the heart of Center City.
Via a survey on its website, the company is trying to connect with people who want to offer their expertise or share information about how to donate to the space.
Scout is also using it to reach artists and small businesses interested in the project.
📐 State of play: Scout already has a general plan for the two buildings, Everett Abitbol, the company's director of development, tells Axios.
Hamilton Hall: The Greek Revival-style building with large columns on South Broad Street is expected to house an affordable studio, workshop and gallery spaces. A restaurant there is also possible.
Furness Hall: The former UArts dormitory behind Hamilton Hall is likely to become affordable artist apartments.
By the numbers: Project costs are projected to be $13 million–$18 million.
👀 Interest has been high; the company has received more than 590 completed surveys as of Monday.
Catch up quick: Scout paid nearly $12.5 million for the two buildings in the UArts bankruptcy proceedings last week, with help from an anonymous donor at the 11th hour.
The emergency loan allowed the company to offer the highest bids for the two halls, but it must be repaid within 60 days.
The company is exploring how to raise funds for the redevelopment, which could include a crowdfunding campaign.
Closing on the properties is set for March 17.
Context: Scout has a history of creatively reviving historic buildings.
The Bok Building was a former school that the company helped turn into a haven for artists, businesses and workspaces. Its eighth floor houses Sicilian restaurant Irwin's and the seasonal outdoor Bok Bar.
What they're saying:"To deliver this at this location and give folks access to a space like this, to continue the creative and cultural production work that we think is really vital to the city, has been the most important thing for us," Abitbol says.
What's next: Company leaders are expected to reveal more details about the development of the sites in April, Abitbol said.
