Rittenhouse Square: Philadelphia's Premier Neighborhood for Luxury Living
At Janiczek Homes, we have decades of experience building exquisite custom homes in the most sought-after neighborhoods, and Rittenhouse Square stands out as one of Philadelphia’s crown jewels. Whether you’re considering a custom renovation or a new luxury build, Rittenhouse Square offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban convenience, making it a prime location for discerning homeowners. Below, we explore the essential aspects of the neighborhood to showcase why it's a top destination for luxury living.
Rittenhouse Square Park with views to Liberty Place. Photo courtesy of Visit Philadelphia.
Location & Accessibility
Central Location – Rittenhouse Square is nestled in the heart of Center City, Philadelphia, bordered by Walnut Street to the north, South Street to the south, and between 18th and 22nd streets.
Convenient Transit – With easy access to major highways (I-76, I-95), it’s a seamless commute to the suburbs or the airport. Public transportation options include nearby SEPTA bus routes, the Broad Street Line, and regional rail stations.
Walkability – Known for its pedestrian-friendly streets, Rittenhouse Square is highly walkable, allowing residents to easily enjoy the neighborhood’s offerings without relying heavily on a car.
Businesses
Corporate Presence – Rittenhouse Square is home to several corporate headquarters and prestigious firms, making it a top spot for professionals in law, finance, and tech.
Co-working Spaces – High-end co-working spaces like WeWork and Industrious cater to entrepreneurs and remote workers looking for an upscale work environment.
Art Galleries – Boutique art galleries and creative spaces thrive in Rittenhouse, making it a hub for art lovers and collectors alike.
Schools
Top Private Schools – Families living in Rittenhouse Square have access to some of the best private schools in Philadelphia, including The Philadelphia School and Friends Select School.
Higher Education – Proximity to The University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University provides convenient access for higher education and professional development.
Renowned Programs – Many of the area’s schools offer specialized programs in arts, sciences, and international studies, catering to families who seek a well-rounded education.
Dining
World-Class Restaurants – Rittenhouse Square boasts some of the city’s most acclaimed dining spots, including Lacroix at The Rittenhouse, Vernick Food & Drink, and Parc Brasserie, offering everything from fine dining to trendy bistros.
Rooftop & Alfresco Options – Enjoying a meal outdoors is a Rittenhouse staple, with many restaurants offering scenic outdoor seating that overlooks the iconic square.
Diverse Cuisine – Whether you're craving Mediterranean, French, Italian, or contemporary American, Rittenhouse’s diverse food scene has something to suit every palate.
We recently completed a full renovation of a penthouse on Rittenhouse Square.
Shopping
Luxury Boutiques – Rittenhouse Square is home to a variety of high-end stores like Boyds Philadelphia, which offers a curated selection of designer brands, and LAGOS, known for its fine jewelry.
Local Gems – The neighborhood also boasts locally owned boutiques such as Knit Wit, Joan Shepp, and Verde, offering unique fashion and artisan goods.
Convenient Proximity – Whether you're seeking luxury fashion, accessories, or home décor, Rittenhouse Square offers a premium shopping experience within a short walk from your doorstep.
Parks & Green Space
Rittenhouse Square Park – At the heart of the neighborhood is the iconic Rittenhouse Square Park, a beautifully landscaped oasis that provides the perfect place for relaxation, picnics, or a morning jog.
Seasonal Events – Throughout the year, the park plays host to events such as the Rittenhouse Fine Art Show and various outdoor markets, bringing together the community and visitors alike.
Outdoor Recreation – While Rittenhouse Square is an urban area, nearby parks such as Schuylkill River Trail provide ample opportunities for biking, running, and riverside strolls.
Mark Janiczek, President & Founder, working alongside our talented craftspeople on South 19th Street at Rittenhouse Square.
The penthouse renovation was located in this icon Rittenhouse building.
Philadelphia’s narrow, historic streets were tackled with ease by our skilled project management teams.
Real Estate in Rittenhouse Square
Luxury Residences – The Rittenhouse Square neighborhood is renowned for its mix of historic brownstones, contemporary high-rises, and bespoke townhomes, many of which are meticulously restored or custom-built to the highest standards of luxury.
Architectural Appeal – Whether you prefer classic architecture or modern design, Rittenhouse Square offers a range of styles that reflect the sophistication of this elite neighborhood.
High-End Condominiums – For those looking for luxury urban living, condominium buildings on Rittenhouse Square offer unparalleled amenities such as concierge services, fitness centers, and private rooftop terraces.
Custom Homes – At Janiczek Homes, we have had the privilege of building on Rittenhouse Square. Our experience in constructing bespoke properties ensures that every detail reflects the homeowner's unique vision while enhancing the architectural fabric of this prestigious community.
Parc, located on S. 18th Street on Rittenhouse Square, is a Philadelphia hotspot inspired by Parisian bistros.
Local Businesses & Destinations
At the corner of S. 18th St. and Walnut Streets, this local women’s apparel brand turned national chain is located in a historic Rittenhouse Square building.
Di Bruno Bros. is Philadelphia’s premier destination for gourmet Italian foods.
The Walnut Street outpost features well-known luxury bedding, pillows, and blankets.
On the Square, Rescue Spa is a results-oriented day spa offering facials, massages, and skin care.
Founded in New York City, the Rittenhouse Square location offers a full menu of French-inspired ice cream and includes vegan options.
A medical history and science museum, The Mutter Museum contains a collection of shocking and fascinating specimens.
Casual, contemporary restaurant and bar with tacos, quesadillas, and Mexican spirits.
Fine dining featuring modern Mediterranean cuisine in this bar and restaurant.
Gourmet pub & raw bar featuring specialty cocktails and dozens of whiskey options.
Design-forward bar and restaurant with New American cuisine set over 3 floors.
With an ever changing menu, this one of a kind restaurant is located in a small, intimate setting.
This Stephen Starr restaurant captures the essence of a Parisian bistro on S. 18th Street.
An Australian-inspired cafe and coffeehouse, Bluestone Lane is a casual spot to grab coffee or avocado toast.
A best-in-class social, hospitality, business, and wellness club with a restaurant and suites onsite.
Rittenhouse Square is more than just a place to live — it’s the epitome of luxury Philadelphia lifestyle. If you’re considering building a custom home or renovating in this exclusive neighborhood, our team at Janiczek Homes has the expertise and craftsmanship to bring your vision to life. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you create the perfect luxury home in Philadelphia’s most iconic square.
In order to access the penthouse, we needed a crane to lift materials to the worksite.
Coordination was key when closing busy urban streets surrounding Rittenhouse Square.