Townhouse on the Sexiest Street in Town Glitters With Zagar Mosaics

The idea of South Street being “sexy” was a PR campaign launched in 1999 referring to the street’s more adventurous stores — those with stripper shoes or sex toys or condoms or lingerie. But there was a time — when Whyte’s Court was first built — when the moniker would have meant something different. The first writeup of the gated courtyard community at 12th and South ran in the Inquirer in 1991, and described a South Street we’d have a hard time recognizing today: “South Street, with its tattoo parlors and fine-art galleries, fast food and fine dining, is a street of eclectic tastes, so it’s no surprise to find an eclectic collection of dwellings at Whyte’s Court…”

At the time, the townhomes ranged from $79,900 to $139,000. The condominium fee was in the area of $60 per month. This two-bedroom, 1,000-square-foot unit costs $310,000, and the fees are only $30 per month. Finally! A price that’s gone down!

But back to sexy. The exterior of the community, which is just two blocks west of Magic Gardens, has a mosaic mural by Isaiah Zagar. Above the entranceway, he has placed tiles that say, “THE SEXIEST STREET.” That — and the mosaic detailing on the floor inside, done by a prior owner — should be good for a smile every time the new owner walks in the door.

Perks include: “cavernous storage space, gleaming hardwoods, living room with gas burning fireplace…gigantic sky light, private outdoor deck with spectacular views of the Center City skyline, additional rear outdoor living space that is perfect for entertaining.”

1236 SOUTH St Unit R [Prudential, Fox & Roach — Walnut / Brian Stetler
PHILADELPHIA, PA 19147