WQED Multimedia: Pittsburgh Magazine: March 2007: Renovation Meets Reincarnation

More Than a Pretty Facade

Winner: Architectural Residence
Over 3,500 Square Feet

Right: Sleek modern meets luxury in the master bath, where frosted windows adjacent to the sunken soaking tub provide privacy.

How does a former service garage, warehouse and set shop for Pittsburgh Public Theater become a home? With a little help: buildings can reinvent themselves, especially when the most interesting elements are respected and left intact.

Designer Peter Kreuthmeier transformed this 1920s commercial space into a residential loft while holding on to its rough-around-the-edges character.

Its original facade was enhanced with sandblasted glass, hinting at what is behind the giant front door. Some interior walls are made of exposed brick, and other details include walnut cabinetry and a mix of mahogany and smooth concrete floors with radiant heat. "The play between refined and raw has a very nice balance," the judges said. "This project worked at every level."

The oversized front door (above, right) and a tunnel-like entrance (above, left) were designed to add drama when entering the loft. Front windows were replaced with sandblasted glass that gradually became more transparent toward the top, allowing for privacy at eye level (above, center).

Because a loft can feel like a single, undivided space, varied levels were used throughout the floor plan, such as in the kitchen (below), which sits several steps up from the living area.

Architect: Peter Kreuthmeier, Loysen + Kreuthmeier Architects
General Contractor: Clearview Project Services Co.
Structural Engineer: Konefal & Co.
Photographer: Ed Massery of Massery Photography Inc.
Electrical Engineer: Caplan Engineering Co.
HVAC Design/Build: Tudi Mechanical Systems
Millwork Contractor: Kegges Cabinet Co.
Lighting Design: Hilbish McGee Lighting Design
Metals Contractor: Peter M. Hughes Associates and Redstar Ironworks
Flooring: Clearview Project Services Co.
Windows: Kawneer Window Systems by Rex Glass & Mirror Co.
Lighting: Architectural Lighting Sales and LaFace & McGovern Associates
Door: Clearview Project Services Co.
Countertop: Granite Fabricating
Millwork/Cabinetry: Kegges Cabinet Co., Clearview Project Services Co., Peter M. Hughes Associates and Redstar Ironworks
Furniture: Weisshouse
Plumbing Fixtures: Seymour's Bath and Decorative Hardware
Wood Stairs: Clearview Project Services Co.
Tile: The Tile Collection

< BACK NEXT >