Scannapieco Development Corp has unveiled plans to construct a $150 million residential tower in the major US port city of  Philadelphia.  

The planned 26-storey glass ‘needle’ tower, named 500 Walnut, has been designed by the award-winning architect Cecil Baker.

The building will house 40 residences starting at 2,500 sq ft, including 14 private, full-floor 4,200 sq ft units that will be fully customisable with expansive balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows and private elevator access.  

500 Walnut will have a two-storey fitness centre with a yoga room, massage and steam room, and a large outdoor terrace.  

Plans also include an underground, fully automated parking system for more than 80 cars, two two-storey penthouses of about 8,400 sq ft, a private interior elevator and multiple balconies.

Architect Cecil Baker said he envisioned 500 Walnut as “a building that should be fully cognizant of its historical foreground and at the same time be a slim, elegant contemporary beacon in Philadelphia.

”Construction work on the project is due to start in spring next year, with planned completion in spring 2017, that’s three years from now.