A new chapter is taking shape for one of Philadelphia’s most iconic buildings. On Wednesday, the city’s zoning board cleared the way for new food and beverage options inside the historic Wanamaker Building. The Grand Court has sat largely empty since Macy’s closed last year, but plans ar e moving forward to bring new life to the building and its famous Eagle statue. “The Eagle is a little lonely right now here at the Wanamaker Building,” said Connor Burke, principal at Alterra Property Group. Burke says Wednesday’s zoning approval is helping move plans forward to transform the 30,000-square-foot Grand Court into a dining destination, with multiple food and beverage concepts ranging from formal restaurants to coffee shops and bakeries. A new “arcade” of shops and kiosks will welcome visitors entering from Chestnut street, ushering them into the “reimagined and reenergized Grand Court,” Burke explained. The goal is to bring people back into the historic space. “People can come. They can see the organ. They can experience the grandeur of the space and really make what was once known as Philadelphia’s living room open door again,” Burke said. The 12-story Wanamaker Building opened in 1911 and became a landmark on East Market Street across from City Hall. And once inside, visitors will have to look up to see one of the most dramatic changes being planned. Philadelphia Oct 1 What's next for Finley Catering at the Wanamaker Building? A new room with a view Philadelphia Dec 10, 2025 Renderings show plans for what could become of Center City's Wanamaker Building “One of the parts of the development that we’re going to start here in the coming months is reintroducing that skylight, so that natural light pours down in the grand court and really activates and energizes the space,” Burke said. The natural light hasn’t been visible from the Grand Court since World War II, according to Burke. While the space is currently closed for renovations, Burke said the traditions of the famous Wanamaker organ and holiday light show will return in future holiday seasons. “It’s going to be a very important part of what’s coming back in 2028. The Oregon the light show, the Eagle. It’s something that we’re really excited to bring back because the holiday season here at Wanamaker is an important part of everyone’s lives,” Burke said. Scaffolding went up around the building in recent days as construction is already underway upstairs on 622 apartments, complete with a rooftop pool and other amenities. The Crystal Tea Room remains open, and developers are targeting a 2028 reopening of the entire project. “It’s a tremendously important responsibility to make sure that we get this right for everyone. And I think that’s showing through in some of the work and the effort,” Burke said. This story was originally reported for broadcast by NBC Philadelphia. AI tools helped convert the story to a digital article, and an NBC Philadelphia journalist edited the article for publication. ...read more read less