Thoughts_Site Visit

The site visit in Pittsburgh was a success. We were able to access the entire site (a little trespassing never hurt anyone...) and photograph and view the site from some interesting angles. In my opinion, this or any project could never correctly begin without a site visit. Although a plan and some site photographs were offered on the competition website, it is necessary to experience a site in person to gain a worthwhile perspective.

Aside from visiting the site, spending some time in and around the city of Pittsburgh was helpful. Pittsburgh is separated into a handful of "boroughs" that all have a unique feel and terrain. Architecture is not only influenced by the site itself but also the urban fabric of it's surroundings and the general culture of a place. In particular, I found the remains of the Carrie Furnace to offer great insight to the industrial architecture that although no longer exists in Pittsburgh, played a significant part in the city's past.


Site and Carrie Furnace as viewed from across the Monongahela



Carrie Furnace