Scope: Furniture
Size: 200,000 sq. ft.
Architect: ZGF Architects
Client: The University of Pittsburgh
Size: 200,000 sq. ft.
Architect: ZGF Architects
Client: The University of Pittsburgh
The Challenge:
Restoring a Historic Landmark into a Cutting-Edge Research Hub
The Pitt Assembly Project reimagined a historic Ford Motor Company building into a state-of-the-art research and innovation hub designed to bridge academia and entrepreneurship. A collaboration between the University of Pittsburgh and Wexford Science + Technology, this eight-story facility was developed to advance medical research and innovation in transplantation, cancer, and immunology.
The project required careful budgeting and planning to balance modern research needs with the building’s historic integrity. Franklin was engaged early in the process to provide budgeting, space planning, and furniture solutions that aligned with the project’s design aesthetic and financial framework.
The project required careful budgeting and planning to balance modern research needs with the building’s historic integrity. Franklin was engaged early in the process to provide budgeting, space planning, and furniture solutions that aligned with the project’s design aesthetic and financial framework.
The Solution:
A Functional, Collaborative, and Historic-Inspired Space
Working in tandem with the University of Pittsburgh, Wexford Science + Technology, and ZGF Architects, Franklin provided strategic solutions to ensure the project’s success. Our team helped refine budgets, sourced furniture solutions, and implemented designs that complement the building’s rich heritage while fostering collaboration and innovation.
Key features of the 200,000 sq. ft. facility include:
Key features of the 200,000 sq. ft. facility include:
- State-of-the-art lab space – Designed to support researchers advancing discoveries in transplantation, cancer, and immunology.
- Flexible collaboration spaces – A variety of conference rooms, lounge areas, and open meeting spaces to encourage interdisciplinary teamwork.
- Retail storefronts – Three ground-floor retail spaces that integrate the facility with the surrounding community.
- Tiered parking garage with secured bike parking – Supporting sustainable commuting options for faculty, researchers, and students.
- Auditorium with 250+ seating capacity – A space designed for lectures, presentations, and symposiums to engage the academic and scientific communities.
- Multipurpose atrium and event space – A central gathering hub for networking, discussions, and cross-disciplinary collaboration.
- Historical galleries throughout the building – Showcasing the rich history of the Ford Motor Company building and its transformation into a world-class research facility.
The Impact:
A Bridge Between Research and
Real-World Impact
The Pitt Assembly Project now stands as a landmark of innovation, providing researchers, faculty, and entrepreneurs with an inspiring space to collaborate and bring groundbreaking discoveries to life. By integrating modern research functionality with historic preservation, Franklin helped create an environment that supports scientific advancement, academic excellence, and community engagement.
Take the First Step
Towards Your New Space
Creating a space tailored to your organization can be complex, but starting your project with us is simple. With decades of expertise in furniture, flooring, and interior construction, we’ll assemble a team of specialists tailored to your industry and project type. Together, we’ll guide you through every step to bring your vision to life.