Editing Art Deco Architecture (section)

== PSFS Building ==

The Philadelphia Saving Fund Society Building (1932), designed by George Howe and William Lescaze, stands as one of the twentieth century's most important American buildings and Art Deco's finest Philadelphia expression. The 36-story tower broke with contemporary practice in multiple ways: its base occupied only a portion of the site, freeing street-level space; its shaft rose without the setbacks that zoning encouraged; its facades expressed structure and function rather than applied ornament. The building's polished granite base, curved corner banking hall, and distinctive PSFS sign atop the tower created a composition of unprecedented sophistication.<ref name="jordy">{{cite book |last=Jordy |first=William H. |title=American Buildings and Their Architects: The Impact of European Modernism |year=1972 |publisher=Anchor Books |location=New York}}</ref>

Howe and Lescaze combined Art Deco aesthetics with emerging International Style principles, creating a hybrid that satisfied commercial requirements while advancing architectural modernism. The ground floor's curved surfaces and chrome details display Art Deco glamour; the tower's gridded facade and ribbon windows anticipate later modernist developments. Interior spaces—the banking hall, executive offices, and building services—received equally sophisticated treatment, with custom furniture and integrated design throughout. The building's influence extended beyond Philadelphia, demonstrating that American commercial architecture could achieve European modernist standards.<ref name="tatum"/>

Now operating as a Loews Hotel, the PSFS Building retains its architectural character, including the iconic rooftop sign that illuminates the Center City skyline. The building's designation as a National Historic Landmark recognizes its significance to American architectural development. Regular tours and scholarly attention ensure continued appreciation of a building that, when completed during the Depression, announced Philadelphia's participation in architectural modernity.<ref name="gebhard"/>