Rittenhouse Square, October 9, 2025
News Summary
Permits have been granted for a new single-family dwelling at 524 South 17th Street in Rittenhouse Square. The three-story structure will cover 1,933 square feet and includes various modern design features. The project aims to enhance the housing landscape in this vibrant neighborhood while adhering to zoning regulations. With natural light and proximity to local parks, the new home is set to attract future residents seeking city amenities.
Construction Permits Granted for New Single-Family Dwelling in Rittenhouse Square
Permits have been issued for the construction of a new single-family dwelling located at 524 South 17th Street, in the Rittenhouse Square area of Center City. This new residential building is part of ongoing developments that strive to enhance the neighborhood’s architecture while providing modern living spaces.
The total construction area for this three-story building, which includes a basement, spans 1,933 square feet. Planned and developed by Waybar 524 LLC, the project aims to offer a high-quality living space in one of Philadelphia’s most desirable neighborhoods. To ensure that the design meets contemporary architectural standards, A2 Design Group has been appointed as the architect for the project, while Waybar Construction LLC has been designated as the general contractor.
The overall construction cost for the project is estimated to be $305,000. The financial breakdown indicates that $250,000 is allocated for general construction, along with $20,000 designated for excavation. An additional $15,000 is earmarked for plumbing work, with $10,000 each for electrical and mechanical installations.
The structure will be built on a 714 square foot lot, which measures 14 feet wide by 51 feet deep. The proposed building footprint is 570 square feet, allowing for 20% open space, including a 10-foot-deep rear yard. In terms of height, the main roof will reach 37 feet 6 inches, with the upper roof-deck pilot house extending to 41 feet. Notably, this height remains compliant with the 38-foot height limit governing primary structures in the RSA-5 zoning designation.
The architectural features of the new dwelling include masonry walls at the base, complemented by standing-seam metal cladding on the upper levels. The west elevation will exhibit a vertical Hardie Plank façade, which marries contemporary design aesthetics with the character of surrounding developments in Point Breeze and Graduate Hospital areas. Other design elements include bay-window projections on both the second and third floors, along with a roof deck that has a pilot house set back five feet from the street line.
Access to the property will be via a concrete stairway, which will protrude three feet into the public right-of-way along 17th Street. The site will optimize natural light with windows strategically placed on three sides—east, west, and south.
The property’s location enhances its appeal, as it backs directly onto Rodman Square Park and is situated just 0.4 miles from Rittenhouse Square. This proximity underscores the residential unit’s access to vibrant local amenities, parks, and lifestyle options.
Interestingly, there is ongoing residential construction at the nearby address of 522 S. 17th Street, indicating an active development trend in the area. Additionally, there has been clarification regarding the previously mentioned building height; the pilot house measures 9 feet 3 inches tall, not the previously reported 3 feet 6 inches.
Although the use of Hardie Plank is relatively uncommon for the Rittenhouse area, its inclusion aligns well with modern building initiatives while contributing to the diversity of architectural styles in this historic neighborhood.
Key Features of the New Construction
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Permit Issued For | Single-Family Dwelling |
| Location | 524 South 17th Street, Rittenhouse Square |
| Total Area | 1,933 square feet |
| Number of Stories | 3 Stories + Basement |
| Total Construction Cost | $305,000 |
| Architect | A2 Design Group |
| General Contractor | Waybar Construction LLC |
| Zoning | RSA-5 |
| Lot Size | 14 feet wide by 51 feet deep |
| Building Height | 37 feet 6 inches (main roof), 41 feet (pilot house) |
FAQ
What is the location of the new single-family dwelling?
The new single-family dwelling is located at 524 South 17th Street, in the Rittenhouse Square area of Center City.
What is the total construction cost for the new home?
The total construction cost is estimated to be $305,000.
Who is responsible for the construction of the new dwelling?
Waybar 524 LLC has planned the development, with Waybar Construction LLC acting as the general contractor.
How many stories will the new building have?
The new building will have 3 stories plus a basement.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
Additional Resources
- YIMBY: Permits Issued for New Residence
- Wikipedia: Rittenhouse Square
- Inquirer: Rittenhouse Square Condo Remodel
- Google Search: Rittenhouse Square Real Estate
- YIMBY: The Laurel Rittenhouse Square
- Google News: Rittenhouse Square Construction
- YIMBY: Harper Square Construction Status
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Philadelphia
Author: Construction TX News
TEXAS STAFF WRITER The TEXAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at constructiontxnews.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Texas and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Texas Construction Expo, major infrastructure unveilings, and advancements in construction technology showcases. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Associated General Contractors of Texas and the Texas Building Branch, plus leading businesses in construction and real estate that power the local economy such as Austin Commercial and CMiC Global. As part of the broader network, including constructioncanews.com, constructionnynews.com, and constructionflnews.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic construction landscape across multiple states.
