Bok Building Celebrates 10th Anniversary and Highlights Its Economic Impact

In 2015, Lindsey Scannapieco took on the ambitious project of transforming the former Bok Technical High School in South Philadelphia into a hub for artists and small businesses. Initially met with skepticism and concerns about potential gentrification, Scannapieco, the managing partner and founder of Scout Ltd., purchased the 340,000-square-foot property for .76 million. Critics doubted her vision, believing that the absence of residential units would hinder the space’s viability. However, ten years later, her project has not only thrived but has become a model for similar endeavors across the city.

A recent report underscores the success of the Bok building. Since 2022, it has maintained full occupancy, garnering 574 inquiries from prospective tenants last year alone. Scannapieco attributes this success to her ability to keep rents affordable, allowing multiple long-term tenants to pay less than per square foot for short-term leases, typically averaging two years. Although Scout Ltd. has not disclosed specific rent figures, reports indicate that these prices position the Bok building as an accessible option for startups and nonprofits.

This affordability is critical as many of Bok’s tenants are newcomers to commercial leasing. Scannapieco reveals that over 50% of these businesses began from home or small studios, with a significant number led by women and people of color. The building has emerged as a valuable environment for creative professional ventures, with nearly half of its businesses devoted to arts and culture.

Supporting this community is the success of various enterprises inside the Bok building, such as the acclaimed Machine Shop bakery, which expanded from a modest space to a substantial storefront. Machine Shop’s growth exemplifies how businesses can thrive in an environment that reduces barriers to entry.

Currently, the Bok building houses 673 workers, with a majority commuting via walking, biking, or public transportation. Scannapieco emphasizes that many of these jobs offer competitive wages, often exceeding the living wage in Philadelphia.

The transformation of Bok not only revitalized a historic building but also redefined the local economic landscape without significantly contributing to gentrification. Reflecting on the model’s future, Scannapieco is committed to maintaining affordable rents and fostering an innovative atmosphere that empowers emerging businesses, ensuring that the Bok building continues to serve as a launchpad for success in the Philadelphia arts and entrepreneurial community.

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