Cherry Street Pier

In 2016, the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation approached Groundswell with the idea to revitalize the defunct Municipal Pier 9 on the Delaware River in Philadelphia, PA. Using the existing architecture of the pier, Groundswell worked to re-conceptualize the space as a mixed-use public space that reimagines how industrial relics can honor a city’s history while integrating innovation into its current culture and artistic presence.

The 55,000 square foot landmark design, which opened to the public in the fall of 2018, is comprised of three main spaces: The Garage, The Platform and The Garden. “The Garage” consists of stacked shipping containers repurposed to house 14 artist studios, conference rooms and a community workspace. Together, these pods form not only a creative hub, but also a unique incubator program that showcases the talents of local artisans, makers and entrepreneurs. “The Platform” is a flexible space for varied programming. A rotating schedule of maker markets, art installations and community outreach initiatives activate the space on a regular basis. At the east end of the pier is “The Garden,” where the roof has been scaled back to create an open-air seating area with lush planters, food and beverage vendors stationed inside refurbished trolley cars, and expansive river views.

Cherry Street Pier integrates multiple uses while embracing the character, beauty and historic values of Philadelphia. It is a space unlike any other, one that celebrates the city’s past and embraces its community-connected future through art, inspiration and creativity.

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Shipping containers are stacked to create 14 tenant studios, community conference rooms, and a community workspace.

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Flexible space is retained for programming events, markets, and art installations.

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Roof is removed on the eastern end of the pier to create an outdoor space with seating, planters, and food & beverage offerings.