I.M.Pei and his contributions to Philadelphia modernism were celebrated by a tour of Society Hill Towers and Townhouses on May 25, 2017. In honor of his recent 100th birthday, Docomomo US/Greater Philadelphia focused their happy hour series, One Building One Brew, on Pei’s modern approach to 1960s urban renewal in the Society Hill neighborhood of downtown Philadelphia. How I.M. Pei’s designs for three high rise residential towers, a series of townhouses, retail, and landscaping unfolded was presented by board members to a group of about 50 participants.

 

The Society Hill design has brilliantly endured over time, and continues to stand as an exemplar of modern urban space and architecture. Architect, Kevin Yoder and his team at k Yoder Design, graciously hosted the chapter and its guests for a comprehensive tour of an I.M. Pei-Designed townhouse, which the firm restored and renovated. After the tour, attendees enjoyed a lively happy hour, filled with camaraderie and further discussions of modern design.