WHERE: 40th and Chestnut

WHY: The new nine-story mixed-use building, with three levels of retail and 101 apartment units is a striking addition to the 40th Street corridor. Designed by Brawer Hauptman Architects in collaboration with Platt Associates of Boston, the distinctive tower is clad in wood veneer and corrugated metal panels, with accents of eye-popping green.

WHAT IT OFFERS: Ranging from 350 square foot studios to spacious two bedroom apartments, all units at the Hub boast 9 foot ceilings, individually controlled heat and AC, “smart” communications wiring for high speed internet access and cable ready TV and a washer and dryer in every flat. Kitchens include microwaves, full size refrigerators, garbage disposal and dishwasher.

MODERN LIVING: The polished concrete floors and exposed concrete pillars give the units an edgy, contemporary feel.

PRICE RANGE: $700 to $1,700

WHO LIVES HERE: According to leasing agent Chris Datz, About 70 percent of the tenants are Penn students or people connected with the University.

HOW MANY ARE LEFT: 96 percent of the building is occupied, and Datz is actively accumulating a waiting list for the 2008-09 school year.

DATZ'S FAVORITE APARTMENT: “The 01 units (301, 401, 501, etc.) are spectacular. 601 is a corner unit with a terrace, which is amazing.”

FOR YOUR SHOPPING PLEASURE: Jean Madeline Salon will open in mid March on the first floor and Chef Jose Garces of Old City’s Amada plans to open a restaurant on the second floor. Other retail deals are still in negotiation.

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING: “We catch people all the time taking pictures outside and looking up,” says Datz. “We get a lot of comments about the green accents. We of course tell them that the actual color is called ‘lime cocktail.’”