Visiting Philadelphia last weekend was filled with pleasant surprises, from fabulous architecture, intriguing design and chance meetings with world renowned artists. As a first time visitor to the City of Brotherly Love, I was thrilled to find that Philadelphia is hoarding a whole bunch of fantastic art and design. In restaurants and cafes, parks and museums, even hidden in alleys.

Check out my faves from the weekend…..

The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts takes up an entire block in Center City, seamlessly meshing vaulted glass, mahogany, concrete and rooftop gardens for a breath-taking architectural creation. The Verizon Hall is contained within the contemporary glass structure, contrasting the vaulted glass ceiling with rich warm wood tones. With a form based on the shape of the Cello. Love!

Philadelphia held artistic surprises around each corner. From the random sculptures on green medians throughout the city, such as Three Discs, One Lacking, by Alexander Calder; to the Rodin Museum and Gardens; and the fortuitous discovery of the Game Pieces Park at the Municipal Services Plaza, there was art to be found everywhere.

There was great design in the restaurants around Walnut and Chestnut Streets. From fun installations with hundreds of shadow boxes, sleek interiors with organic materials, and layers of glass infused with tobacco leaves; there was something to be found at every turn. Of course, intriguing installations of exterior wood elements always catches my eye.

Twenty-four hours gave a quick and impressive insight into Philadelphia. Not to mention meeting the amazing Ellworth Kelly, at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, while taking a photo of this piece, Study for Atlantic. Definitely the highlight of the trip!