The renovation, and phased re-construction of this existing 170,000 sq.ft., 100+ year old, former mattress factory is currently under construction.  Expected completion for the Phase One office tower is the summer of 2008.  This developer/owner driven 55,000 sq.ft. office tower is conceived of as an economical and authentic combination of the truly old building shell, with new contemporary functionality and image.  The building is located within Pittsburgh’s Manchester neighborhood with spectacular views to the Ohio river and the city skyline.

The existing timber frame and brick building exterior is composed with new windows, new entry / canopy, and new rooftop sign / mechanical screen.   The addition of a clean metal clad stair tower, entry, and roof line serve the new technology driven image for the Metro Center while recalling the industrial origins of the building and its neighborhood context. 

Sustainable design strategies have been applied throughout; from thermally improved perimeter walls, new high performance windows, new white (TPO) roof, to new high efficiency mechanical and electrical systems.

The Phase One building renovation includes the insertion of a new elevator, fire stair and toilet room / building services core.  This core has been carefully fit within the existing structure of the lower levels while extending as a two story “addition” at the fifth and sixth floors.  This planning strategy increases both the flexibility and leasable area of these prime floors while maintaining river and city skyline views.

The interior floors of the tower are planned for use as flexible, open office space and are to be fit out by individual tenants.   The existing materials and features of the structure have been restored and augmented where possible.  The existing timber structure has been cleaned and refinished, while new level sub-floors provide acoustic isolation over the existing factory floors.  Exterior walls have been significantly thermally improved with new high performance windows and spray insulation.  New HVAC and power distribution have been carefully integrated into and coordinated with the renovated timber ceilings, and walls.