Since the 19th century, the Philadelphia rowhouse has stood as the working man’s home—compact, affordable, and enduring. But how can its limited footprint foster connection across multiple generations, something never intended in its original design?
Genero reimagines the rowhouse as a multi-generational dwelling where shared and private spaces coexist in balance. Rather than assigning each floor to a different generation, the design takes a more granular approach, embedding small communal pockets at the center of each narrow floor to encourage daily interaction along circulation paths.
The rowhouse has three floors and two main entrances that separate public and private access. Its split-level configuration enhances spatial variety while maintaining accessibility. The second floor divides into two levels, creating a lightwell that draws daylight deep into the interior. Beyond the primary living, dining, and lounge areas, small nooks at the center of each floor form intimate zones for interaction—some open and light-filled, others enclosed, cozy and quietly atmospheric.
