Material Culture isn’t just a store. It is a world. A global journey. An aesthetic trek through history and cultures. Enter this 60,000 square foot space - jam packed with antiques, art, crafts, architectural elements and ornate furniture - and be transported.
The shop occupies much of an old factory in a space off of the expressway, where Germantown and North Philadelphia meet. But enter into this hall, and your eyes do not know where to go first. Its lower floor is filled with Asian furniture, sculptures and collectibles that are arranged with a brilliant eye. There is a bazaar vibe here, a jam-packed abundance and visual richness that transports you to another world.
Upstairs, find more one-of-a-kind furniture and art installed with curatorial prowess. Up another staircase is the Colors by Padmini Boutique, a store-within-a-store that sells clothing, accessories and smaller gift items. (Things you could actually fit in your backpack, or your car.)
Also on site is Baba Olga’s Kitchen, which is hosting brunch and other events. In fact, the space is so impressive that Material Culture hosts weddings and special events, with their cafe offering global cuisine catering. Grab a snack in the shadow of a $ 2000 elephant sculpture.
Check the website for news and events, as they are regularly hosting concerts, auctions, fashion shows, or more exotic happenings, like the visiting Tibetan monks who create a sand mandala on site. I love to attend their special events. There’s always something fascinating happening here!
Find your way with 156 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Laurel Hill Cemetery" in Philadelphia is equal parts public garden, sculpture park, historical campus and graveyard. It's a truly special spot...
By
The "Fabric Workshop and Museum" in Philadelphia is one of the best places to see contemporary art - it's a central overlooks gem!
By
The "Woodmere Art Museum" and its mansion tell the story of Philadelphia and its artists from the 1800s to now. Don't miss its gift shop or back gallery!
By
"Duross & Langel" is a Philadelphia soap shop. Scented with fruit and herbs, I'm afraid they're works of art almost too beautiful to use in the shower...
By
The "Simeone Foundation" Philadelphia is one of the finest private collections of classic cars in the US. This out-of-the-way treasure is a must see...
By
The "Penn Museum of Anthropology" in Philadelphia would be a marquee attraction in a smaller town. Don't overlook this jewel and its collections, trust me.
By
"Tria" Philadelphia is my favorite sophisticated yet cozy bar to explore the divine trinity of wine, beer and cheese. Perhaps my favorite is Sunday School.
By
"Greene Street Consignment" in Philadelphia makes it easy to find great pieces on their tidy, colorful shelves. My recommendation: check the clearance racks!
By
How "Night Kitchen" get its cinnamon rolls to absorb so much butter is one of the great mysteries of Philadelphia. It's my favorite bakery in Chestnut Hill.
By
"Hokka Hokka" in Philadelphia is the sushi bar/restaurant my husband and I start so many of our dates. This balance of tasty and beauty is something else.
By
Besides the packed schedule of shows, they are also a daytime coffee shop that opens its bar at noon. They have a great (rotating) wine selection as well!
By
You probably already know Philadelphia is famous for its cheesesteaks, but who has the best? It's "Dalessandro's Steaks & Hoagies" in Roxborough...
By
156 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 156 Insider Tips