Weaver’s Way Co-op

Chestnut Hill Market

Philadelphia, PA

Weavers Way Co-op purchased a deteriorated three-story property in Chestnut Hill with the vision of creating a new neighborhood market that would expand access to local, organic, and sustainably sourced food while contributing to the vitality of the historic business district. O Z Collaborative provided a feasibility study and subsequent renovation design for the project, transforming a vacant grocery property spread across five interconnected buildings into the Co-op’s Chestnut Hill Market. The existing structures presented significant challenges, including deteriorated roofs, groundwater infiltration, structural deficiencies, outdated building systems, and life-safety concerns. Rather than replace the existing buildings, the design focused on adapting and strengthening them for contemporary retail use.

Store operations and customer circulation were carefully organized within the constraints of the original bearing wall system, creating a cohesive shopping experience across the interconnected structures. Respecting the architectural character of the Chestnut Hill Business District was a central project objective. O Z Collaborative designed a new 60-foot-long storefront inspired by the area's historic commercial architecture, creating a welcoming public presence that complements the surrounding streetscape. The completed market transformed a neglected property into a thriving community destination. Today, Weavers Way Chestnut Hill serves as a vital resource for fresh, local, and organic groceries while reinforcing the economic and social vitality of the neighborhood.

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Street view of a small retail building with a green facade, displaying the signs 'Weavers Way Co-op' and 'Food Market'. The building has three large windows with interior lighting, a door on the right, a bench, and a streetlamp in front. Surrounding
Aisle in a grocery store with shelves stocked with snack foods, condiments, and refrigerated dairy products, with customers shopping in the background.
Interior of a grocery store with shelves stocked with various products including jars and boxed items. A woman in a red coat is shopping near refrigerated shelves in the background. The store has green walls, bright lighting, and a clean, organized a
Interior of a grocery store with fresh vegetables displayed on wooden tables and a refrigerated case filled with greens, lettuce, and broccoli on the left. Green walls and large windows letting in natural light, with two people shopping.
Indoor grocery store produce section with shelves of fresh fruits and vegetables including green peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, apples, and melons, and black floor mats near the display.
Inside a grocery store with shelves stocked with various food and beverage products, including frozen meats, cereal, bottled drinks, and dairy items.
Inside a delicatessen with a glass display case of salads and meats, shelves of cheese, and a kitchen area with chefs preparing food in the background.
Street view of a building with a storefront named Weavers Way Co-Op, trees lining the sidewalk, a bench with a person sitting, and a bicycle parked near a lamppost.