The accomplishments of the last century and the opportunities of the future are colliding at The Assembly, where the transformation of Pittsburgh’s historic Ford Motor Plant into a center for scientific research is indicative of a new era of innovation in the Steel City.
Designed for cutting-edge cancer and immunology research, the building consolidates academic researchers and private industry tenants into one central location. Generous amenity, retail, and conferencing space will help attract top talent while serving tenants and the surrounding community.
A new laboratory tower and parking facility has been inserted adjacent to the Ford Plant. Clad in precast terracotta, the new addition complements the brick plant in materiality, form, and industrial character while remaining architecturally distinct. A landscaped terrace connects the old and new structures.
The adaptive reuse of this historic relic into a center for biomedical research presents a case study in how industrial architecture can be revitalized for tomorrow’s economy.
Project: The Assembly
Firm: ZGF Architects
Popular Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Higher Education & Research Facilities
