Hartranft Recreation Center and Pool

Philadelphia, PA

The Philadelphia Housing Authority sought to restore the Hartranft Community Center after years of disuse and deterioration. The existing 12,000-square-foot, multi-level facility had been abandoned and required comprehensive renovation to return it to active community use. O Z Collaborative provided full architectural services for the renovation of the community center and adjacent natatorium. The project included replacement of HVAC and plumbing systems, new windows, LED lighting, ADA-compliant entrances and restrooms, and new finishes throughout the building. Interior spaces were renewed to support multipurpose rooms, classrooms, daycare functions, and neighborhood programming. The indoor pool was restored as a key recreational and public health resource.The design prioritizes accessibility, durability, and flexibility, allowing the center to serve a broad range of community needs. The restored Hartranft Community Center reestablishes an important civic hub for the surrounding neighborhood, supporting recreation, education, wellness, and community connection.

The Philadelphia Housing Authority

<Cultural & Civic

Exterior view of Hartrant Community Center with a blue PHA sign, American flag, brick and white building, and a tree on the right.

An empty conference room with rows of black chairs, white tables on wheels, a blue accent wall, a whiteboard, and large windows providing natural light.

Indoor swimming pool with blue water, white tiled edges, metal handrails, and high ceiling with industrial lighting. Large windows along one wall let in natural light. Lifeguard equipment rests on the pool deck, and there are safety signs on the wall

Modern building with large glass windows, brick walls, and a small outdoor playground with slides and bright blue flooring.

A lobby with blue and white walls, tiled blue floor with white accents, and a reception desk to the right. There are six people seated and standing, some using devices or talking, and a receptionist sitting behind the desk. The room is illuminated by

Empty indoor swimming pool with a child on the pool edge, large windows letting in natural light, and modern lighting fixtures.

Rendering of a community health center with a brick and white exterior, stairs leading to the entrance, and a blue PHA sign. People are walking and sitting outside on a sunny day with trees and a partly cloudy blue sky.