Nix Federal Building Post Office

Originally built in 1937 under the Public Works Administration, the Nix Federal Building stands as one of Philadelphia’s finest examples of Art Deco architecture. This project revitalized the historic Post Office section of the building, transforming 50,000 square feet of previously vacant space into a new home for the passport office, which relocated from the United States Custom House.

The renovation balanced modern functionality with historic preservation. Key updates included the addition of two ADA-accessible ramps at the 9th Street entrance, a new elevator, selective wall removals to optimize the interior layout, and the partial removal of security catwalks to introduce a lightwell that enhances the mezzanine space.

The reimagined interior now features open-plan workstations, private offices, training rooms, and break areas. The historic lobby has been carefully preserved and now serves as a welcoming space for security screening, service information, and waiting areas, seamlessly blending the building’s rich history with its modern purpose.