2203 Washington Ave - The Mama-Tee Tiny Grocer

2203 Washington Ave – The Mama-Tee Tiny Grocer:

Project Overview:

Location: 2203 Washington Ave, Philadelphia, PA

Initial Property: A vacant site in the Point Breeze neighborhood.

Transformation: Developed into "Mama-Tee Tiny Grocery Store," serving as a transportable headquarters for the Mama-Tee Community Fridge Project.

Design Strategy:

Concept: Portable and small-scale structure with a "tiny house" design.

Functionality: Central hub for organizing, sorting, and distributing healthy food to combat local food insecurity.

Aesthetic: Chosen for its non-utilitarian, community-friendly appearance over a shipping container design.

Value Addition:

Community Support: Addresses food insecurity by aiding 18 community fridges in food deserts.

Innovative Design: Illustrates an effective approach to assisting underserved communities through quick-to-build, affordable tiny structures.

Legal Milestone: Establishes the first legal "tiny structure" of this nature in Philadelphia, setting a precedent for urban transformation.

Impact:

Community Empowerment: Functions as both a practical and symbolic hub for volunteer activities and food distribution.

Urban Innovation: Demonstrates the versatility of tiny structures in urban areas for various uses including affordable housing and community centers.

Media Recognition: Garnered extensive media coverage, spotlighting its innovative approach and effectiveness.

Architectural and Social Vision:

Architect's Contribution: Jamal Wells Architect envisioned a mobile, functional, and aesthetically fitting structure to facilitate the project's activities.

Building and Mobility: Constructed by the Carpenters Union Eastern Atlantic States (EAS) and relocated to its current site, showcasing cooperative construction efforts.