A reimagined historic asset adapted as a new home for lifesaving research and technologies

Strada transformed the historic 3000 Market Street into a state-of-the-art innovation hub for life science research in the heart of Brandywine Realty Trust’s Schuylkill Yards.

Originally constructed as a meatpacking plant and slaughterhouse for the D.B. Martin Company in 1906, Strada completed a feasibility study to determine the building’s suitability for life science tenancy. The 60,000 sq. ft. property underwent extensive renovations, including structural repairs, thermal envelope upgrades, and improvements to the exterior façade while preserving its historic features.

The project aimed to create increased visibility and connection to Drexel Square across the street while restoring original arched-top windows and terracotta detailing. In 2021, the entire building was leased by Spark Therapeutics, a developer of gene therapy treatments for debilitating genetic diseases. Strada’s design expertise and careful attention to historic preservation allowed the property to be transformed into a modern, cutting-edge facility while maintaining its historic character.

It's not immediately apparent, but the original ground floor of this historic 3-story structure is no longer visible. It's actually below Market St. which was raised an entire floor level at the time that 30th St. Station was built. The challenge for the design team was to scale the remainder of the facade to Market St., and also to create a larger gesture at the scale of the recently constructed greenspace that is the heart of Schuylkill Yards.

Chris Kenney Strada Principal