2003 - PITT HONORS COLLEGE STAIRCASE - PITTSBURGH, PA

During the 2002-03 academic year, the University of Pittsburgh’s University Honors College offices on the 35th and 36th floors of the Cathedral of Learning underwent a major renovation. Working with a design by the Pittsburgh firm, Rothschild Doyno Architects, Technique Architectural Products built the staircase and railing system between the two floors. Upon the project’s completion, Technique’s craftsmanship was recognized by the City of Pittsburgh and The Historic Review Commission with a Historic Preservation Award.
 
Technique Architectural Products used laser-cut layers of steel with a rich patina to give the project an old world look, creating a tie to the craftsmanship of Samuel Yellin whose wrought iron work decorates the Commons Room at the base of the building. Ken Doyno, lead architect for the renovations, called the craft and technology of the old and new ironwork in the Cathedral “the pinnacle of the craft of wrought ironwork.” Technique’s owner and founder, Ray Appleby, was moved by the project. “It was really a special opportunity to be involved in such a momentous project; one that will be around for years to come,” he said. The Cathedral of Learning, a historic landmark, is the second-tallest education building in the world - 42 stories and 535 feet tall. It is also the geographic and traditional heart of the campus.