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NEW & ADAPTIVE REUSE
C2 Architecture 3
Integrity is everything at this Philadelphia-based firm, which focuses on new and adaptive reuse projects. The Hatboro Lofts project launched this firm into the big time in 2003.
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NORTHEAST
| ARCHITECTURE
by Rachel Goldberg
Husband and wife team Jim and Ilka Cassidy founded C2 Architecture in Philadelphia in 2005 with the ambitious goal of realizing the potential in every architectural project, regardless of size or constraints. The firm’s work focuses mostly on residential housing, both new and adaptive reuse, but they also do some commercial projects. Their web site, www.c2-architecture.com, says that they offer primarily “architectural design and documentation, planning and programming, construction administration, and consulting on zoning, historical, and land development issues.” C2 Architecture’s big break came with the $25 million Hatboro Lofts project in a suburb of Philadelphia. When they first became involved with the building in 2003, it was a dilapidated stove factory that had been vacant for 10 years. The firm had a big job on their hands in documenting the building, preparing alternate plans, and guiding the rezoning and development process, but the Cassidys had a clear vision of combining historical authenticity with highquality design. They applied for the building to receive a historical designation with the goal of ensuring historical preservation and community support. The design team deliberately preserved and enhanced historical elements in their restoration of the ruined factory, while also meeting modern space and accessibility requirements. Each unit is individually tailored to fit the structural variety of the building; some incorporated elevator shafts and stairwells, providing extra rooms with ceilings over 20 feet high. Exposed brick walls, ceilings and columns provide a uniquely historical atmosphere. In 2009, it earned C2 Architecture the Preservation Alliance of Greater Philadelphia Grand Jury Award for their innovative work in adaptive re-use and restoration. In 2006, C2 began work on the neighboring Cosmopolitan motors building as part of the Hatboro Lofts complex. They created a mixed-use complex with environmentally sustainable features. Cassidy says that the project is now 95 percent complete, with the focus mainly on land development. In addition to its founders Jim and Ilka Cassidy, the firm includes intern architect Joe DiCicco. Because C2 focuses on design first, they look for hands-on skills when hiring employees, Cassidy says, with the goal of empowerment through job experience. According to their web site, C2’s view of the architectural design and construction is that of a conversation between all involved parties, “a democratic process where all ideas are valid and encouraged.” C2 also has an international heritage: the couple worked in Ilka’s native Germany for about a year after completing their architecture degrees at the University of Washington. Though the firm is small, Cassidy says that a high level of service sets it apart: “We have a lot of development experience so we understand what it takes to make jobs viable.” They are able to efficiently and creatively use the space and resources available to them by considering existing architectural, environmental, and legal constraints. Cassidy predicts a trend towards architectural design in the suburbs, and he plans to meet the growing demands of that market with his upcoming projects. CLT 4 Construction Leaders Today
Before & After: Hatboro Lofts, Hatboro, Pa. Embracing the history of the community, C2 Architecture transformed the Roberts and Mander Stove Factory, vacant for over 10 years, into 159 residential units and a 2,500 sq. ft. cafe. In 2009, the project won the Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia Grand Jury Award. Photos by C2 Architecture and Sam Oberter Photography.
ARCHITECTURE
| NORTHEAST
C2
ARCHITECTURE
Summer 2010 5
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