History
The neighborhood has changed a lot over the years. Our buildings were some of the first and still some of the coolest in the Northern Liberties
A Harmonious Blend of Sustainability and Heritage
Capital Flats, situated in Philadelphia's vibrant Northern Liberties neighborhood, exemplifies the innovative vision of the original developer, McDonald family and their architectural firm, Onion Flats. This project seamlessly integrates modern sustainable design with the rich industrial history of the area, reflecting commitment to both environmental responsibility and historical preservation.
The History
In 2000 the former meat-packing plant, Capital Meats, was transformed into 8 rental apartments and became Phase 1 of a 3-phase project called Capital Flats.
The journey of Capital Flats began with the rehabilitation of the former Capital Meats building, a meatpacking plant that had operated for 80 years before ceasing operations in 1989. By 1999, the site had fallen into disrepair. Onion Flats embarked on a transformative project to repurpose this deteriorating structure into a vibrant residential space. The first phase, completed in 2001, converted the building into eight rental apartments.
The Passive House Standard
A cornerstone of the Capital Flats development is its adherence to the Passive House standard, a rigorous building performance standard that emphasizes energy efficiency, comfort, and environmental sustainability.
The second phase of the project, Capital Flats II, not only met Passive House standards but also achieved net-zero energy status, producing more energy than it consumed. This accomplishment underscores Onion Flats' commitment to pioneering sustainable architecture and setting new benchmarks in energy-efficient building practices.
Preserving Industrial Character
Throughout the development process, Onion Flats prioritized the preservation of the site's industrial heritage.
Original architectural elements, such as exposed brick walls and steel beams, scales were retained and integrated into the new design, maintaining the building's historical character while accommodating modern living needs. This approach not only honors the legacy of the former meatpacking plant but also contributes to the unique aesthetic of the loft apartments in the Northern Liberties neighborhood.