ONE CITY

One City is a historic gem tucked just north of City Hall in Center City, Philadelphia, converted into a mixed-use treasure of retail, apartments, and luxury amenities. Inspired by fine details and materials in the original architecture, the design concept celebrated both the old and the new through custom, tailored details in millwork, steelwork, and collections of art and objects. This project was the recipient of a Philadelphia Preservation Alliance Award for Preservation Achievement in 2021.

Firm: Eileen Tognini Design; Position: Senior Designer and Project Manager;

Client: Alterra Property Group; Architect: BLTa; Photography: Daniel Jackson; Completion: 2020

Historic buildings are filled with surprises, including this gorgeous coffered ceiling that was discovered and restored.

An example of the design collaboration I coordinated between designer, architect, and local steel fabricator BCD.

The reception area materials palette celebrated the existing materials and layered in a contemporary aesthetic of active natural stone, brass detailing, and mirrored accents.

I designed this bar area in collaboration with several local fabricators, beginning with a plan concept of a staggered/stepped counter area that drew inspiration from façade details, and subsequently the lasercut motif that was carried throughout the common areas.

Celebrating the details of the existing architecture is deeply important to me, and uncovering/restoring the ceiling in this double-height amenity space is no exception.

In keeping with the storied history of the building, I assisted in designing and sourcing objects for this "Artifact Wall" that showcases technology and its advancements over the last century.

While finalizing the partition plan for the amenity space, I made sure to carve out space for Phone Rooms, which serve as quiet spaces to post up while working from home. The varying counter heights offer both ADA accessibility and ergonomic flexibility.

I created the programming & space planning for all common areas, including the penthouse lounge shown above.

My responsibilities included the budgeting, selection, procurement, and delivery of all furniture and custom-built items, as well as any related architectural coordination required.

The 360-degree roofdeck wraps the Penthouse amenity lounge and boasts some of the best views in Philadelphia. Programming for the roof included an aromatic kitchen garden, yoga deck, dog run, a TV lounge, fire pit lounges, and grill stations with custom pergolas. I was the point person for all architectural and custom coordination, as well as furniture procurement.

Material palette images, inclusive of rich jewel tones, textures, and natural stone.

Lobby & Ground Floor Clubroom furniture plan

Penthouse furniture plan