Moving to The National at Old City in Philadelphia PA

The National at Old City stands as one of the few true gated communities in Center City Philadelphia. This distinctive development at 113 N Bread Street offers 130 contemporary lofts and townhomes built on the historic site of the former National Restaurant Supply Company. With soft-loft styling featuring exposed brick and high ceilings, underground deeded parking, private courtyards, and secure gated entrances, The National delivers a unique residential experience in the heart of Old City. LiteMovers provides specialized moving services for National residents, coordinating gate access and building logistics to deliver seamless relocations within this secure community.

The National is part of Philadelphia’s historic Old City neighborhood. View our complete Old City moving guide for neighborhood information.

About The National

Located at 113 N Bread Street in Philadelphia’s Old City neighborhood, The National was built in 2006 on land with a dramatic history. The original National Restaurant Supply Company buildings caught fire in the late 1990s, creating the opportunity for this unique development that honors Old City’s industrial heritage while providing modern luxury living.

The National comprises three buildings plus townhomes, creating a true community within its gated walls. This configuration is exceptionally rare for Center City Philadelphia, where most residential options are either high-rise towers or individual rowhouses. The National offers the security and community feel of a suburban development with the walkability and character of Old City.

The development attracts residents who value security, parking, and community in an urban setting. The gated entrance, underground parking, and courtyard spaces create a residential enclave that feels distinct from the busy streets outside.

The National Floor Plans & Residences

The National offers approximately 130 units across three mid-rise buildings plus ground-level townhomes. Units range from approximately 960 to 2,413 square feet with prices reflecting location, floor level, and views.

Loft Condominiums

The majority of National units are “soft loft” style condominiums in the mid-rise buildings. These feature exposed brick elements, oversized windows, and high ceilings that reference Old City’s industrial heritage while providing modern comfort. Floor plans range from efficient one-bedrooms to spacious multi-bedroom layouts.

Note that many units feature half-walls rather than fully enclosed bedrooms, providing an open loft feel but less privacy in secondary sleeping areas. This design choice appeals to some buyers while others prefer more traditional layouts.

Townhome Residences

Ground-level townhomes within The National provide multi-level living with private entrances. These residences offer the feel of traditional Philadelphia rowhouse living within the secure gated community, often including direct access to courtyard spaces.

Premium Residence Features

Soft Loft Styling: Exposed brick, oversized windows, and high ceilings create authentic industrial character with modern finishes.

City & River Views: Upper-floor units in the mid-rise buildings offer impressive views of the Center City skyline or Delaware River.

Underground Parking: Deeded underground parking spaces are available, though not all units include parking. Spaces are highly valued in this neighborhood.

Balconies: Many upper-floor units include balconies with city views.

ADA Compliant: The National was built to ADA compliance standards, ensuring accessibility throughout the community.

The National Amenities & Services

The National’s gated community design provides amenities focused on security, parking, and shared outdoor spaces.

Security & Access

Gated Entrances: The community features secure gated access points—one of very few gated residential communities in Center City. All visitors, including moving crews, must coordinate access in advance.

Secure Underground Parking: Protected parking garage provides secure vehicle storage for residents with deeded spaces.

Community Spaces

Private Courtyards: Landscaped courtyard spaces within the gated community provide outdoor relaxation areas exclusive to residents.

Community Grounds: The development maintains shared grounds creating a campus-like atmosphere within Old City.

Building Features

Three Building Configuration: Units are distributed across three mid-rise buildings, each with elevator access.

Well-Funded Association: The condo association maintains strong reserves and keeps common areas in excellent condition.

Old City Location Benefits

The National’s location on N Bread Street places residents within Old City’s vibrant restaurant and gallery scene while providing the security of gated living.

Historic District

Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and dozens of other historic sites operate within walking distance. Old City’s First Friday gallery openings occur monthly, transforming the neighborhood into an art destination.

Dining & Entertainment

The National sits within blocks of acclaimed restaurants including Fork, Amada, and numerous other dining options. The Arden Theatre provides year-round performances nearby.

Waterfront Access

Penn’s Landing, Race Street Pier, and Cherry Street Pier provide waterfront recreation within easy walking distance.

Transportation

SEPTA’s Market-Frankford Line provides rapid transit access. Easy highway access to I-95 and I-676 serves commuters. The neighborhood’s high Walk Score reflects excellent walkability for daily errands.

Moving to The National: Logistics & Timeline

Moving into a gated community requires advance coordination that differs from typical building moves. LiteMovers’ experience with The National ensures smooth access and efficient relocations.

Pre-Move Planning (4-6 Weeks Before)

Contact LiteMovers at (610) 755-5535 or 1-877-798-8989 to schedule your complimentary estimate. The National’s gated access requires advance coordination with community management for vehicle entry.

During planning, we coordinate with the HOA to confirm gate access arrangements, Certificate of Insurance requirements, and any restrictions on moving vehicle size or timing. We determine which building your unit is in and plan logistics accordingly.

Philadelphia requires Temporary No Parking permits for moving trucks on city streets. Depending on gate access arrangements, permits may be needed for staging areas outside the community.

Two Weeks Before Move-In

Confirm all documentation has been submitted. Verify gate access codes or security arrangements for move day. Finalize unit access details with the seller or management.

Move-In Day

Our crew arrives at the scheduled time and coordinates with gate security for entry. We navigate to your specific building within the complex, deploy floor protection, and position furniture according to your specifications. For townhome moves, we coordinate multi-level furniture transport.

Specialized Services for The National

Gated Community Coordination: We work with HOA management to arrange gate access well in advance, ensuring our vehicles can enter the community without delays on move day.

Multi-Building Navigation: The National’s three-building layout requires familiarity with the complex. We assess your specific building’s access points and elevator locations during planning.

Townhome Moving: For ground-level townhomes, we coordinate multi-floor furniture transport and navigate private entrances within the community.

Underground Parking Awareness: We understand the parking garage layout for residents who need vehicles positioned during move-in.

Courtyard Protection: We navigate the community’s landscaped courtyards carefully, protecting shared spaces during the move.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Choose LiteMovers for The National

Gated Community Experience: We understand the coordination required for secure communities. Our advance planning ensures smooth gate access on move day.

Multi-Building Navigation: Our familiarity with The National’s three-building layout ensures efficient moves to any unit in the complex.

Old City Expertise: Our experience in this historic neighborhood ensures appropriate vehicle positioning and efficient navigation of surrounding streets.

Licensed & Insured: LiteMovers operates under USDOT #2173383 and PA PUC #8916211. Our comprehensive insurance satisfies HOA requirements.

Learn More About The National

• Center City Condos – The National – Building information and sales data
• Old City Neighborhood Guide – Complete neighborhood information