Philadelphia Clef Club of Jazz & Performing Arts

Client

Category

Civic/Cultural

In 1995, the PCC established a new three-story facility—the first ever constructed specifically as a jazz institution—on the corner of Broad and Fitzwater Streets. It houses classrooms, a performance space, recording facilities, and executive offices.

A city street intersection with modern and historic buildings showcases civic pride and historic preservation, as parked cars, traffic lights, street signs, and pedestrians animate the sunlit scene under a clear blue sky.

Existing building at the corner of Broad and Fitzwater Streets

The renovation is intended to enhance both the visitor experience and educational offerings by introducing new program rooms, improved interior layouts, and revitalizing the building’s interior and exterior with updated lighting, colors, and materials.

A modern, glass-walled building at dusk with “PCC” vertically on its facade. People walk outside, cars pass by, and the top floor glows blue. Showcasing thoughtful interior design, the city skyline shimmers in the background.

According to KMA Principal Troy C. Leonard, AIA, “A referral from a gracious owner’s rep who saw synergy between this and another project we worked on together led to this job. Also, the involvement of our late co-founder, Emanuel Kelly, FAIA, with the development of a feasibility study to repurpose John Coltrane’s former residence in West Philly as a cultural center gave us an even deeper appreciation for the art of jazz. It’s an honor to assist the Clef Club in realizing their inspired vision.”