Allegheny Observatory

Allegheny Observatory

Portico restoration (Phase 1)

  • Portico restoration (Phase 1)
  • Construction/terra cotta investigation
  • Terra cotta restoration - before and after
  • Exploded view of pediment
  • Historic view
  • Project information
  • Awards

The shell restoration of the Allegheny Observatory, today a part of the University of Pittsburgh, is a multiphase project that began in 2007 with rehabilitation and replacement of the terra cotta of the main (east) entry portico. Pittsburgh architect Thorsten E. Billquist won the competition to design this Classical Revival building, which at the time of its completion in 1912, was home to one of the major astronomical research institutions in the world. P+A's renovation utilized a Keystone Historic Preservation Grant from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC).

Client: University of Pittsburgh (Ongoing)

2008 Annual Preservation Award
Historic Review Commission of Pittsburgh

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