About the Project 

Growth of a Metropolis is the latest artwork by acclaimed muralist and architectural master Richard Haas. Designed by Haas, the mural was painted by Philadelphia artist Jonathan Laidacker. In 2012, Laidacker restored Haas’ Chestnut Place at 23rd and Chestnut Streets.

Growth of a Metropolis depicts the history of architecture in Philadelphia from 1682–2015, and brings Haas’ signature trompe l’oeil style to Old City. The south facing wall is a carefully curated collage of some of Philadelphia’s most iconic buildings. From Independence Hall to the Comcast Center, the mural displays the rich diversity of Philadelphia’s architectural history.

The narrow eastern wall of the mural depicts a massive door at ground level, with reproductions of three William Rush sculptures towards the top of the building. Rushs’ actual sculptures are on display at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.