Architecture & Design

French expatriates in Philly remember the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris as a landmark of their youth, and they wonder if it will ever be the same after Monday’s fire.

Philadelphia has many old, iconic buildings and neighborhoods. So why are so few of these sites historically preserved and protected from the wrecking ball?

This weekend, a church in West Philadelphia will host performances of music composed by experimental sound artist Maryanne Amacher.

More than 40,000 square feet of new, technology-savvy public space do not hold books, but aim to promote civic engagement as the Philadelphia Free Library refines its mission.

Nicholas Baker wanted to save Philly’s ornate subway entrances. It took 10 years, but he did it.

After 20 years of bureaucratic battles and courtroom litigation, the condo tower planned for the Washington Square parcel faces what may be its final hurdles.

Blueprints show a new tower rising on an empty lot next to existing warehouse buildings. Plans show retail, an outdoor cafe, and a bar or restaurant space.

The historic 19th Street Baptist Church designed by Frank Furness may soon be demolished.

Philadelphia is one of few major United States cities that has a design review process that is entirely advisory.

Why is congestion so bad in Philadelphia and how can transportation be improved for drivers, cyclists, walkers, and everyone in between?

Philadelphia neighbors lose zoning appeal against 31-story apartment tower in Society Hill.

Five thousand pictures of Philly in the 1960s and '70s were donated to Penn, without descriptions. The university is asking the internet for help.

On this Christmas rebroadcast of The Why, we look back at the rise and fall of The Gallery, once holiday shopping institution in Philadelphia.

Amtrak's only remaining split-flap schedule board at 30th Street Station in Philadelphia is retiring in January — or is it? And why would we miss it?

Guests: Inga Saffron, Mark Kuhn, Brendan Boyle Say goodbye to 30th Street Station’s iconic flip boar ...