Needs
11616 Latimer Street was constructed as a women’s club and has continued to be used for the same purpose for over 90 years. The owners of 1616 Latimer Street have been good stewards of this important asset – within their financial means. Membership fees in recent years have included funds earmarked to a capital reserve fund for larger maintenance projects. Such projects have included repointing and remortaring of the exterior western wall, replacing a deteriorating roof, and restoration of the original Bouy painted arches in the entry and reception area.
Along with regular maintenance, there have been changes and upgrades to the design, systems and kitchen over the years. But the building is now suffering from deteriorating infrastructure and lack of investment in major upgrades. Full accessibility has never been completely addressed.
The original beauty and excitement of the building’ s interior have been altered to reflect changing tastes. Many aspects of the décor need restoration so future generations can experience Bouy’s realization of the dynamism of the modern, for the forward-thinking “cosmopolitan” women.
Master Planning
In 2021, the Cosmopolitan Club made a preliminary investment toward initiation of a new 5-year Master Plan that provides an updated comprehensive approach to addressing the needs of a 21st-Century women’s club, as well as preservation of the Gilchrist Art Deco façade and the interior aesthetic treatments that reflect Bouy’s vision for creating a “theatre” showcasing the modern woman.
The principal objectives of the Plan include activating underutilized space within the building; formulating what and how to restore aspects of its original design; and upgrading as necessary to meet current standards of accessibility, health and safety.
The Master Plan is the guiding framework for an Implementation Task Force of architecture and historic preservation professionals tasked with overseeing future work on the 1616 Latimer Street building.
Completed Projects - a pilot project for the facade of 1616 Latimer Street
The Fund has approved a series of grant awards to the Club for the project. Work has been completed as planned, including a much-needed entrance ramp and automatic doors for increased accessibility.
Current Project
The Fund is delighted to announce funding for a long-time goal of the Cosmopolitan Club - an elevator to carry members and visitors from the main floor to the dining room. The Club expended significant effort in determining the best type of elevator suitable to the historic fabric of the building that would provide maximum feasibility and receive approval from the Philadelphia Historical Commission. If approvals and planning go according to design, construction is expected in mid-2025.
Future Projects
With the Master Plan as a guiding framework, the Cosmopolitan Club Board will approve additional projects as they arise from the Implementation Task Force as proposals. Afer review, the Club board will submit proposals to 1616 Latimer Fund for funding from the Building on a Legacy campaign. Campaign funds will be used for the next capital priorities as they are proposed and approved. The next projects are expected to include such projects as air handling and second-floor safety egress.