History of Loews Philadelphia Hotel
An Icon Reimagined: From PSFS to Loews Philadelphia
Could Loews Philadelphia’s history be any richer? We don’t think so. Rising 33 stories above Center City, our landmark building reshaped the Philadelphia skyline when it debuted in 1932. With its striking geometric form and forward-thinking design, it remains one of the most celebrated examples of early American modernism.
Through The Years
Commissioned by the Philadelphia Savings Fund Society (PSFS), the first savings bank in the United States, the tower was designed by architects George Howe and William Lescaze. Built during the Great Depression at a cost of $8 million, it was one of the earliest skyscrapers to feature central air-conditioning, a groundbreaking advancement at the time that locals dubbed “weather in a box.”
The building quickly became one of the most significant architectural achievements of the 20th century. In 1969, the local chapter of the American Institute of Architects named it the most important building constructed in Philadelphia in the previous century. A decade later, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
After the bank closed in 1992, a new chapter began. In 1997, Jonathan Tisch and Philadelphia Mayor Ed Rendell announced plans to transform the historic tower into a hotel. The conversion began in 1998, and in April 2000, Loews Philadelphia Hotel officially opened its doors.
Today, the property honors its architectural legacy while offering a refined, contemporary guest experience. The former banking hall has been thoughtfully preserved as an impressive event space, and original design elements remain woven throughout the hotel; a seamless balance of heritage, character, and modern comfort in the heart of downtown Philadelphia.
The Famous PSFS Sign
From as far as 20 miles away, the iconic red PSFS sign still crowns the skyline. When it debuted, it marked the first time advertising was fully integrated into a building’s design. During the Great Depression, the sign remained illuminated around the clock as a symbol of stability and reassurance. Today, it continues to glow as one of Philadelphia’s most recognizable landmarks.
The 33rd Floor
Loews Philadelphia Hotel is proud to announce the completion of its renovated 33rd floor, marking a significant enhancement to the hotel’s upper-level guest experience and further solidifying its position as one of the city’s premier luxury destinations.
The refreshed 33rd floor introduces redesigned meeting rooms and event spaces offering sweeping skyline views and refined finishes inspired by Philadelphia’s architectural heritage. The renovation reflects the hotel’s commitment to thoughtful design, guest-centered amenities, and elevated urban hospitality. The design pays homage to the beauty, forms, and colors of the natural wonders of the area by means of using colors found in local forests, lakes, rivers, and mountains, pairing them with a neutral background for a timeless and contemporary feel. The carpet design throughout features a soft, earthy color palette and organic shapes mimicking the foliage of surrounding forests and mountains, such as the mountain laurel and serene waters of local lakes and rivers like the Glen Onoko Fall and Susquehanna River. The intricate pattern and textures of the carpets are inspired by natural elements such as tree branches, rippling waters, river rocks, and delicate flower petals, which are woven into the carpet, creating a harmonious and tranquil ambiance reminiscent of the local landscape.
“We are thrilled to welcome guests to our newly reimagined 33rd floor,” said Darryll Adams, Managing Director of Loews Philadelphia Hotel. “This renovation represents our dedication to creating exceptional experiences in exceptional spaces that feel both contemporary and timeless, while delivering the level of comfort and service our guests and the community expect.”
Highlights of the renovated floor include updated interiors, enhanced lighting and technology features, premium furnishings, and upgraded bathrooms. The top floor will host events with special menus, and hotel team members will dress in more elevated uniform attire to provide another layer of luxury service for guests seeking an exclusive experience. Whether visiting for business, leisure, or special occasions, guests can now enjoy an elevated experience high above the city streets.
Before the building became the Loews Philadelphia Hotel in 2000, the Philadelphia Savings Fund Society was one of the first skyscrapers built in the U.S. Designed by architects William Lescaze and George Howe in 1932 in the style of the International Modern architecture or International Style. The 33rd floor of the building was once set aside for the highest echelons of business. The top floor established itself as one of the most powerful business settings in the country. The floor was so exclusive and powerful that many of the PSFS top executives never even set foot upon the top level. In fact, according to urban myth, the elevator operators would get out of the car on the 32nd floor, to have the passengers go to the 33rd floor alone. As the elevator door closed, the operator would call out, “You’re on your way, gentlemen!”
Learn more about the meeting rooms and event space on the 33rd Floor.