Sanctuary Lofts Home

Sanctuary Lofts

Sanctuary Lofts, originally the Greater Saint Matthew Baptist Church, was built in 1889. Transformed into an array of apartments varying in size from studios to one, two, and three bedroom options in 2014, the building has retained many of the unique architectural features of the former church including intricate carvings and arched doorways. Each apartment expertly blends old-world beauty with modern amenities. Rent yourself a “slice of heaven” today!

Floor plans

Experience diving living in one of our heavenly apartments. With 11 different apartment types to select from and a range of styles including studios, one, two, and three bedroom options, Sanctuary Lofts has the perfect space for you to call home.

Available Studio Lofts

Available One Bedrooms

Available Two Bedrooms

Available Three Bedrooms

LOFT FEATURES

And God said, “Let there be light”… abundant natural light, "cathedral ceilings,” oversized windows, and granite countertops!

Sanctuary Lofts is your city retreat, your personal refuge, your own private “sanctuary.” Experience all the glory of living in a historic church with beautiful, ornamental details combined with modern amenities for a truly unique living experience.

  • Loft-style apartments in a converted church
  • High ceilings (10’ on 1st floor, "8’7” on 2nd floor and soaring “Cathedral” ceilings on 3rd and 4th floors*)
  • Large windows
  • Unique architectural detailing such as cornices, intricate carvings and arches*
  • Stained glass window treatment*
  • Restored original hardwood floors*
  • Bi-level residences feature hardwood floors and carpet
  • Individually controlled Mitsubishi heating and air conditioning
  • Granite countertops
  • Ceramic subway tile backsplashes
  • European-styled contemporary cabinetry
  • GE® stainless steel appliances
  • glass-top stoves and ovens
  • built-in microwaves
  • 18 cubic-foot refrigerator/freezers
  • dishwashers
  • garbage disposals
  • State-of-the-art, full capacity Bosch® front loading washers/dryers
  • Designer ceramic tiled bathrooms
  • Marble wainscoting*
  • Double pane windows

*in select apartments

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COMMUNITY AMENITIES

Our contemporary apartments are highlighted by unique community amenities that maintain the history of the original church. During the conversion from a church to a series of beautiful apartments, we maintained a commitment to green living which can be found throughout the building.

Unutilized building materials and appliances from the renovation were donated to Impact Services Corporation, a Philadelphia-based non-profit organization that works to support local individuals, families, and communities to build a safe and stable future.

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  • Pet-friendly
  • Controlled building access
  • Camera surveillance via your phone, tablet or computer
  • Two lobbies, one featuring restored, original church pews
  • Elevator
  • Energy-efficient L.E.D. hallway lighting
  • 24-hour access to trash and recycling room
  • Indoor and outdoor bike storage
  • Resident portals for online payments, maintenance requests, and resident services
  • 24-hour emergency maintenance
  • Easy access to public transportation
  • Steps from Penn Shuttle stop
  • Indego bike share location across the street
  • Amazon Pickup and Returns location down the street
  • Blocks from Schuylkill River Park
  • Centrally located across the street from Giant Heirloom Market, one block from South Square Market Grocery Store and two short blocks from Starbucks, CVS Pharmacy and an assortment of highly rated restaurants, bars and cafes.

Location

Centrally located in Graduate Hospital, Sanctuary Lofts is a brief walk or bike ride away from South Street, the Center City Business District, and University City. Enjoy an eclectic mix of local restaurants, boutiques, cozy coffee shops, bars, grocery stores, parks, and an Amazon delivery/drop-off center. Get involved with the community through local events, including annual block parties and an annual Pop Up Garden provided by The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS).

While living at Sanctuary Lofts, transportation is a breeze. Walk to nearby train and bus stops or take advantage of car share spots in close proximity to the building. Faculty and staff of the University of Pennsylvania also have access to the Penn Shuttle stop just down the street. Car commuters are a brief 6-minute drive to 1-76.

History

1889

Saint Anthony of Padua Catholic Parish was established in 1886. The Sanctuary was built two years later and stood through three depressions, four wars and great social and economic change.
The church’s 128-foot clock tower became a neighborhood focal point, which served the important function of helping residents keep track of the time.

1910

The bell in the church tower was dedicated and inscribed, “When I hear the sound. Let the evil spirits retreat...”

1925

The Rectory, home to the clergy, was built next to the church.

1999

The building was sold to Greater St. Matthew’s Baptist Church when the St. Anthony of Padua congregation merged with a nearby church.
Sixteen stained-glass windows, each 11 ½ feet high and created in the finest studios in Bavaria, Germany over a century ago, were moved to St. Basil’s in Kimberton, Pennsylvania.
A scene from The Sixth Sense, the blockbuster supernatural thriller directed by the acclaimed M. Night Shyamlan, was filmed outside the church’s striking red doors.

2011

Greater Saint Matthew’s Church followed its members to a new location.

2014

The empty church is transformed into Sanctuary Lofts – a series of 30 apartments. Honoring its long-standing role in the community, the Sanctuary Lofts conversion saves the building from the wrecking ball while also maintaining many of the church’s original features. Through thoughtful renovation, the spiritual wonder the Greater Saint Matthew’s Church once evoked remains intact.

Leasing

“You can’t buy happiness... but you can rent it!”
Have faith in us, we want to welcome you home. At Red Door Residential, we draw on many years of property management experience.

Why a Red Door?
The origin of our name says a lot about our company’s philosophy. The color red calls attention to the commitment our property management team makes to ensure resident satisfaction. All of our properties have red doors is to symbolize openness, acceptance and to welcome our residents. The result: outstanding, exceptional service.

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Management

With Welcome Home Property Management, our name says it all. We want our properties to feel like a community, which is why we have a dedicated Resident Relations Ambassador who will greet you with a smile and welcome you into your new home. Our experienced, highly-trained maintenance team is available 24/7 to provide you with the very best service. Even better? We make maintenance request submissions and rent payment a breeze with our convenient online resident portal.

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Contact us

Reach out to us today

Contact us:

[email protected]