Nashville to Philly: An Architourist’s 2018 Odyssey

                        Urban Sketchbook 

In June 2018, I boarded the Amtrak Crescent in Nashville, trading country twang for Philadelphia’s urban rhythm over a 20-hour ride ($70–$140, amtrak.com). Philly’s architecture—a dynamic blend of colonial charm and modern boldness—ignited my architourist passion. Exploring iconic sites, I marvelled at their craftsmanship and context. Yet, parking hassles, homelessness, and crime highlighted urban challenges, urging innovative design solutions. Here’s my 2018 Philly adventure, brimming with architectural wonder!

Philly in a Flash: Museums, Memorials & a Skyline to Remember

Back in 2018, I had only a short window to explore Philadelphia—but even with limited time, the city unfolded like a rich architectural sketchbook. I began at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, lingering outside on the iconic “Rocky Steps”. With the Benjamin Franklin Parkway stretching ahead like a Mughal ceremonial path, the neoclassical presence of the museum—its grand symmetry and limestone poise—evoked the ramparts of a Rajput fort. I didn’t make it inside, but the views alone, layered with art, city, and sky, were enough to stir any architect’s soul

As I wandered down the Parkway, I paused at the American War Memorial—a quiet yet commanding tribute, blending dignity with classical form. Its sculptural solemnity, set amidst urban movement, reminded me of India's own cenotaphs and samadhis—spaces built not just for memory, but for reflection.

Not far off stood a building that caught my eye immediately: the Free Library of Philadelphia, its Corinthian columns rising with stately elegance. It felt like a civic temple—grand yet accessible. The detailing, symmetry, and civic pride in that façade reminded me of the Indo-Saracenic libraries in Chennai and Mumbai, where culture and knowledge are housed in stone.

 I did manage to spend more time at the University of Pennsylvania campus, which I actually entered and enjoyed. The blend of Gothic Revival at College Hall and the bold, red sandstone drama of the Fisher Fine Arts Library felt instantly familiar—like Kolkata’s academic institutions had crossed oceans and time zones. The evolving campus also hinted at modern, climate-conscious design, adding another layer to the narrative.

Parking in Philly, however, was a challenge throughout—tight spots, high fees, and meter-hopping kept me alert, much like navigating traffic in old city areas back in India. Still, the skyline—a stunning patchwork of historic towers and modern glass peaks—made every detour worth it. From the Parkway to Penn, Philly offered a condensed yet unforgettable journey through design, memory, and ambition.

In June 2018, Philly’s architecture—College Hall’s Gothic elegance, Fisher Library’s daring artistry, Elfreth’s Alley’s timeless grace, and the PMA’s neoclassical splendour—fuelled my architourist imagination, blending heritage and innovation. Plan your Philly quest with visitphilly.com!

                            

Copyright © 2025 [Ar. Pallavi Vasekar]