TF Cornerstone, the owner of the Wanamaker building, is seeking to transform the historic property into residential space while redesigning the first three floors that previously housed Macy’s to accommodate multiple retail tenants, writes Paul Schwedelson for the Philadelphia Business Journal.
The plans for the 114-year-old building, which spans an entire block just east of City Hall, also include adding new entrances to the shopping area at both the north and south sections of the 12-level structure.
Under the proposal, floors six through 11 would be transformed into 621 apartments, with floors four and five remaining dedicated to office use. The top level would offer amenity space for residents and could host a commercial retail tenant. The redesign would extend to the roof, which would allow the addition of a swimming pool along with a deck.
The submission to the Philadelphia Historical Commission outlines plans for new storefront entrances at all four corners of the building and notes that the owner intends to establish a consistent signage standard for incoming tenants.
The plan also includes bronze and glass storefront partitions placed within the arched openings of the grand court, creating room for additional retail spaces.
Read more about what will become of the Wanamaker building in the Philadelphia Business Journal.
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Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on PHILADELPHIA.Today in December 2025.
