Oakland\u2019s architectural landscape is transforming.<\/p>\n
As new Pitt campus facilities and multi-story residential projects continue to rise across the neighborhood, the architectural character of Oakland continues to evolve alongside its historic foundation.<\/p>\n
Pitt recently completed several construction and design projects<\/a> across its campus, including the Recreation and Wellness Center<\/a> and Hillman Library renovation<\/a> \u2014 both featuring modern and glass-cased exteriors.\u00a0<\/p>\n Numerous additional construction projects are underway in South Oakland, including new housing developments and taller apartment complexes. A nine-story residential development<\/a> planned for 250 Atwood St. and a 12-floor residential unit<\/a> planned for Halket Street are among the slated developments. Oakland\u2019s newer apartment complexes include the HERE<\/a> and SkyVue apartments<\/a>, with the Caroline apartments<\/a> currently under construction.\u00a0<\/p>\n Drew Armstrong, director of architectural studies at Pitt, said he feels that new modern architecture on Pitt\u2019s campus is best identified by a shift of materials.<\/p>\n \u201cThe transparency and lightness of glass is at the forefront of the architecture we see now on Pitt\u2019s campus,\u201d Armstrong said. \u201cThis is happening very recently with Hillman and the Recreation Center, where the exteriors are fundamentally sheathed in glass.\u201d<\/p>\n In contrast, Armstrong said Pitt\u2019s historical campus buildings reflect a range of architectural styles from different periods and cultures throughout history.<\/p>\n \u201cFor many of Pitt\u2019s older buildings, architects took inspiration from the Middle Ages in Europe and from the Renaissance,\u201d Armstrong said. \u201cWith newer additions coexisting alongside historical buildings, you can see the history of architecture before your eyes.\u201d<\/p>\n According to Pitt\u2019s new Campus Master Plan<\/a>, the planning and design of buildings require a focus on stewardship to meet the current and future needs of the University. Gina Bleck, vice chancellor for planning, design and construction, said that new projects undergo thorough review to ensure they respect Oakland\u2019s historical architecture and legacy.<\/p>\n \u201cAll projects go through an internal evaluation, as well as review by the City Planning Department<\/a> and the Historic Review Commission<\/a> when applicable. There is an appreciation and stewardship of the historic legacy within Oakland that the Campus Master Plan continues to embrace,\u201d Bleck said.<\/p>\n Julia Gilardi, a senior civil engineering major, said she has also noticed a major shift in architecture on Pitt\u2019s campus towards sustainable and modern design.<\/p>\n