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A modern building with wooden beams and large windows, surrounded by trees and greenery at dusk. The sky shows hints of sunset colors. A deck is visible in front of the building.

Tree Pittsburgh

Allegheny County, Pennsylvania

Dedicated to restoring Pittsburgh’s urban forest through tree planting, care, education, advocacy, and land conservation, Tree Pittsburgh’s headquarters and classroom space is a model of sustainability.

Project Description

Located on a reclaimed brownfield site, Tree Pittsburgh’s headquarters and Education Center building achieves Net-zero Energy through power generated by photovoltaic solar panels. A 3,000-gallon temperature-controlled water tank provides the campus with its potable water. Prefabricated modules reduced on-site construction waste and created a tight, energy-efficient building envelope. Modules are anchored by foundation piles that compress, rather than displace existing soil. The building serves as a space for the community to engage in volunteer and educational activities and learn about the importance of trees.

Completed

2018

Municipality

City of Pittsburgh

Neighborhood

Lawrenceville

Certifications

Net Zero Energy

Key Green Features

2030 District Partner
Brownfield Remediation
Community Engagement
Daylighting
Greywater System
High Performance Envelope
Low-Flow Fixtures
Native Landscaping
On-site Solar Power
Rainwater Collection
Stormwater Management

Building Use

Education
Multi-Use

Awards Received

Building Architecture Winner (Cincinatti Design Awards 2019)

Building Size

5,500

Building Owner

Tree Pittsburgh

Project Team

GBBN, Jendoco Construction, EcoCraft, Iams Consulting, Gateway Engineers, Pashek + MTR, Civil and Environmental Consultants