oliver’s pourhouse expansion

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This new structure is a much-needed expansion to a popular restaurant in downtown Greensburg, PA. The owner had purchased the neighboring property with the intent to renovate it. After a lengthy design and engineering study with another design professional, the owner discovered the disappointing result that the investment required would never yield an equivalent return. This project raises many questions of how to address economics, preservation, demolition, urban revitalization, and context.

The owner hired our firm and commissioned us to provide a new contemporary structure allowing his business to expand. We worked to resolve critical internal organizational deficiencies and functional relationships. Current building code issues also had an impact on the planning.

Beyond the functional relationships, we identified three local conditions for this corner lot. The storefront entrance area addresses the connection between the old and new buildings. The dining area sits above West Pittsburgh Street with a view engaging with the street below. The glass corner connects these two conditions where a difficult grade transition occurs between the gentle pitch of one street and the steeper pitch of the other.  The design has been approved by the local HARB and City Council. The schematic design is complete and awaiting the next phase of development.

Client: Roy and Natalie Bodnar, Owner’s Oliver’s Pourhouse, Robokyo