Refine Search
Sort by
$2,450,000
6 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths ⋅ PAPH2674000 MLS ⋅ COMING SOON Status
A rare and storied offering in the heart of historic Society Hill, this 1844 townhouse is attributed to architectural historians as the work of Thomas U. Walter, the architect behind the dome of the United States Capitol. Known as the Griffin Balcony Townhouse for its signature cast-iron balcony — long missing, later traced to Bucks County, and reinstalled on the façade by the very ironworker who had originally removed it — this four-story residence with basement offers an extraordinary opportunity, available to the market for the first time in 60 years. Step inside to discover a multi-story atrium and circular openings that draw natural light deep into the home, creating a sense of openness and vertical flow through every level — a striking architectural gesture rarely found in a home of this era. Original marble facing, fine woodwork, interior shutters, and historic detailing have been preserved wherever possible, alongside exposed wood beams, wood floors throughout, and two wood-burning fireplaces that lend warmth and character to the interiors. A rare residential elevator serves the primary floors, offering long-term accessibility within a home of remarkable historic integrity. Currently configured as an elegant triplex, the home offers 5 bedrooms, 3 full baths, and 1 half bath distributed across the four floors and basement — well-proportioned living spaces with flexibility rarely found in a property of this stature. Beyond the interiors, a walled and deep rear garden and terrace create a true sanctuary — a private outdoor retreat in the heart of the city, featuring slate salvaged from the original sidewalk during the 1960s streetscape renewal, a tangible link to the neighborhood's storied preservation history. 234 S 3rd Street presents three compelling paths forward for its next owner: Restore as a single, grand Society Hill residence — reclaim the full scale and grandeur of this landmark home as an extraordinary single-family showplace. Maintain a high-end multi-unit configuration — up to three refined residences, ideal for multi-generational living or investment income. Pursue a prime luxury condo conversion — capitalize on Society Hill's premium market with individually sold luxury units in a building of unmatched historic significance. Steps from the Delaware River waterfront, Independence National Historical Park, and the cobblestone streets of Society Hill, this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to own a true piece of American architectural history — and to write its next chapter.

234 S 3rd St, Philadelphia

$3,199,000
7 Beds ⋅ 8 Baths ⋅ PAPH2651100 MLS ⋅ ACTIVE Status
The Cadwalader House is an extraordinary trophy property in the heart of Philadelphia’s historic Society Hill, offering a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create one of the city’s most remarkable private residences. Ideally situated just steps from Washington Square and surrounded by the architecture, charm, and character that define this coveted neighborhood, the property is equally close to some of Philadelphia’s finest restaurants, cafés, shops, and cultural attractions, including Zahav, Talula’s Garden, Fork, Headhouse Square, the Museum of the American Revolution, Independence Hall, and the Delaware River waterfront. Encompassing more than 10,000 square feet across five floors, the residence offers a scale and configuration rarely found in Center City, with a private elevator, expansive and highly flexible floor plan, and 3-CAR PARKING, an exceptionally rare amenity in Society Hill. The property is zoned exclusively for single-family residential use. Importantly, the exterior restoration and roof have already been completed, allowing the next owner to focus entirely on the interior transformation. Bring your own architect and vision, or utilize the existing architectural plans for a proposed seven-bedroom, six-full-bath residence with two powder rooms. With the major exterior work complete, the property is ready for interior construction and customization. Combining historic significance, extraordinary scale, coveted 3-CAR PARKING, an elevator, and an unparalleled Society Hill location, The Cadwalader House presents an exceptional opportunity to create a truly one-of-a-kind Philadelphia residence. Please note that many of the photographs included in this listing are renderings depicting what the completed residence could look like.

240 S 4th St, Philadelphia

The data displayed relating to real estate for sale comes in part from the IDX Program of Garden State Multiple Listing Service, L.L.C. Real estate listings held by other brokerage firms are marked as IDX Listing.
The information being provided is for the consumers' personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing.
Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Copyright 2026 Garden State Multiple Listing Service, L.L.C. All rights reserved.

Updated:


The data relating to real estate for sale on this web-site comes in part from the Internet Listing Display database of the CENTRAL JERSEY MULTIPLE LISTING SYSTEM, INC. Real estate listings held by brokerage firms other than this site-owner are marked with the ILD logo. The CENTRAL JERSEY MULTIPLE LISTING SYSTEM, INC does not warrant the accuracy, quality, reliability, suitability, completeness, usefulness or effectiveness of any information provided. The information being provided is for consumers' personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify properties the consumer may be interested in purchasing or renting.
Copyright 2026, CENTRAL JERSEY MULTIPLE LISTING SYSTEM, INC. All rights reserved.The CENTRAL JERSEY MULTIPLE LISTING SYSTEM, INC retains all rights, title and interest in and to its trademarks, service marks and copyrighted material.