Jefferson Honickman Center: Setting the New Standard in Healthcare Real Estate
East Market, National’s visionary development spanning over a decade in Center City, Philadelphia, has reached its pinnacle with the completion of the Jefferson Honickman Center, a 19-story medical office building. This transformative project not only represents a significant milestone for the city but also stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of our team and Jefferson Health. The project was led by National’s independently operating subsidiary, National Real Estate Development (“National Development”).1
From its seamless community integration and cutting-edge medical features to its stunning architecture, vibrant public spaces, and powerful economic impact, Jefferson Honickman Center is a groundbreaking development in healthcare real estate.
Community Integration
The 4-acre East Market site, situated on Market Street between 11th and 12th, has been a beacon of change for the Philadelphia community. Over the years, the area has undergone a remarkable transformation, and the 462,000-square-foot Jefferson Honickman Center is the final piece of the site’s development. The new building considers the neighborhood’s historical context and existing conditions, ensuring it aligns seamlessly with the community’s needs.
A Medical Office Building, With Hospital-Like Features
This state-of-the-art medical office building is poised to redefine healthcare infrastructure. Boasting hospital-like features, the building is a testament to Jefferson’s commitment to providing top-notch healthcare services. With over 300 exam and operating rooms, imaging and lab services, a pharmacy, and a rooftop outdoor healing garden, the Honickman Center will be a central hub for medical excellence.
The meticulous planning and collaboration between National and Jefferson have resulted in a building designed to meet the evolving healthcare needs of the future. The incorporation of complex equipment, including air handlers, cooling towers, and emergency generators, ensures that the Honickman Center is equipped to evolve and stay at the forefront of medical innovation.
Artistry in Architecture
Beyond its functional aspects, the Honickman Center stands out for its artistic contributions to the Philadelphia skyline. The curtain wall, a glass facade fabricated by a local company, serves as a dynamic billboard, reflecting the vibrancy within. Curved glass panels emulate a pleated fabric façade, paying homage to Philadelphia’s rich history as a center of textiles. The integration of art into the development, with three significant artworks, aligns with the city’s cultural ethos.
Creating Public Spaces
Through its design, the Honickman Center reinforces the vision for the East Market neighborhood, which encompasses an entire city block in the heart of Center City, Philadelphia. The location of the Honickman Center preserves the original master plan intent for East Market and provides for the completion of Chestnut Walk from Market Street to Chestnut Street and the continuation of ground-floor retail and pedestrian activation.
Economic Impact
The magnitude of the Honickman Center’s construction is not only measured in its physical presence but also in its impact on the local economy. Supporting almost 3,400 jobs over its four-year construction period, the project has been a significant contributor to job creation in the community. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the collaborative efforts and strong partnerships between National and Jefferson have allowed the project to stay on schedule and contribute positively to the local economy.
The Jefferson Honickman Center stands as a symbol of progress, innovation, and community engagement. From its integration as the culmination of the East Market redevelopment to the realization of a cutting-edge medical facility with a focus on art and community impact, the development is a testament to what can be achieved through visionary partnerships. As the Honickman Center opens its doors, it not only transforms the Philadelphia skyline but also sets a benchmark for future developments that prioritize community integration and healthcare excellence.
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