Originally built in 1905 with an addition that nearly doubled its size constructed in 1941, the Letsche School was a fixture in the Hill District neighborhood of Pittsburgh for generations. Vacant for over a decade, the building fell into disrepair and was frequently vandalized. Beacon Communities contracted with PWWG to assist them in securing both Historic Tax Credits (HTC) and the competitive PHFA 9% Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC). As part of the development and to attain the desired unit count and mix, PWWG also designed four (4) new construction attached townhouses across the street from the school building, capturing breathtaking views across the Strip District and Allegheny River below.

PWWG worked closely with the owner’s historic preservation, accessibility, sustainability, civil engineering, and landscape architecture consultants, along with our own engineering consultants, to design the 46 unit development to the many regulations and design guidelines imposed by SHPO, NPS, and PHFA, as well as the project’s investors. PWWG also assisted in acquiring multiple zoning and building code variances to maximize the site and usability of the existing structure.

The design gracefully incorporates and highlights historic elements to remain, while achieving modern energy standards with the goal of attaining Enterprise Green Communities Certification. The team worked with Beacon representatives to ensure compliance with their design standards while creating unique spaces for residents to enjoy.

One of the biggest initial challenges of the project was making the building accessible given the two vintages of structure, as well as the story of elevation change from one end of the building to the other. PWWG found the ideal location for the insertion of an elevator that captures all levels between the “new” and “old” portions of the building. We also worked with the landscape architect to establish an exterior accessible route to all site amenities and to both rights of way despite the challenging terrain. We incorporated a new entrance addition to provide a graceful and accessible entrance for all residents and guests.

Size

School – 48,630 SF
Townhouses – 6,846 SF

Construction Cost

$ 16 M

Firm Responsibility

Architectural Design
Contract Documents
Coordination Of Internal + Owner Consultants
Contract Administration

Completion Date

2024