Discovering Philadelphia's Architecture

http://www.workshopoftheworld.com/center_city/reading.html
Reading Terminal Head House and Shed


The Reading Terminal (head house and train shed) located at 1115-1141 Market Street has connected Philadelphia and its visitors since its inception in 1893. The original builder for this architectural masterpiece was Charles McCaul. The train shed, one of a kind in size and engineering, served as a transportation connection point for daily commuters living in and outside of Philadelphia.

After the renovations in 1995, the original purpose of the building evolved into its new purpose. Today, the building continues to serve as a connection point for citizens of Philadelphia as well as visitors from the surrounding suburbs and beyond. The Head House, preserved externally to maintain its original Italian Renaissance style, now serves as an entrance to the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Market East Train Station and the Gallery shopping Center.
The train shed now serves as part of the Convention Center and is truly elegant. Elements, such as tracks placed within the shed's flooring reveal the shed's original use while serving as a decorative element.
The sculptures by Judy Pfaff decorating the shed's ceiling offers electrical illusions, again reminding one of the feeling of the original purpose of the building along with a distinct indication of the elegance of its new use. Although left abandoned for a brief period prior to renovation, the building has been a place of activity and exploration in Philadelphia for more than 100 years.


The Reading Terminal has been on the National Register for Historic Places since 1972. Historical Preservation and Renovation are Green and Sustainable design choices.