As a part of the largest investment Camden has ever seen, two new skyscrapers by Robert A.M. Stern Architects have been proposed for construction along the Camden waterfront in New Jersey.
The project, worth around $1 billion, is being backed by Malvern based property developer Liberty Property Trust, a firm which is definitely not a newcomer to large scale projects in Philadelphia having already financed RAMSA’s Comcast Center and the Navy Yard complex.
Locals are hoping that the new skyscrapers, located just south of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, might be the long-awaited catalyst for economic growth of the neighborhood. The last two attempts to reinvigorate the area’s economy, the Adventure Aquarium and the $30 million Campbell’s Field baseball stadium, have both failed to meet expectations.
In addition to the two high-rise buildings, the project also includes a variety of smaller buildings which will offer retail, office, and residential spaces as well as a hotel and park area.
Opting for a contemporary approach rather than their usual more traditional style, RAMSA is intending to “create a new urban neighborhood,” with these key project goals to “fill in the gaps along the waterfront” and link to other attractions such as the aquarium, said Meghan McDermott, a partner at RAMSA who is leading the current design effort.
The new structures are intended to present a stunning visual to help boost Camden’s image among locals. The smaller of the two buildings has a sculptural design, with a river-facing facade which seems to have been carved away, facilitating sight lines both at street level and along the rivers banks to give residents and visitors clear views of river. While this structure strongly underlines RAMSA’s goal to “connect the city to the waterfront” the taller structure is markedly different.
The height of the second skyscraper will make sure it is easily spotted from anywhere in the city, and its large floor plan at the top will give a chance to earn revenue and allow the occupants of the building to truly enjoy the beautiful views over New Jersey and the river. If approved, this project should breathe a new lease of life into the Camden shoreline.
