Project Name: 

Master Builders' Association of Western Pennsylvania

Project Square Footage (ft²):

9,913

Year Built:

2010

Green Building Certifications: 

LEED Gold

Project Team: 

Rothschild Doyno Collaborative (design), F.J. Busse Company, Inc. (general constractor)

Please provide a brief description of the project.

Through a true collaborative effort, the original Iron City Sash & Door property was transformed from its architecture and décor of the 1960’s into the new, more energy efficient and environmentally friendly home of the MBA. Quality design and craftsmanship is the hallmark of this project and is a testament to the skilled trades whose work is showcased in every detail throughout the building.

How did the building's team work together to address sustainability and building performance?

We set out with some rather specific goals in mind:

We wanted the work that went into this project to showcase the skill and quality of workmanship that MBA contractors and union tradesmen are known for. As you walk through the building, we think that you will agree that we have been successful in achieving that goal. Pay particular attention to the woodwork, ceilings, drywall, masonry, and concrete.

Architecturally, we wanted the building to blend with the beautiful, natural environment of the site, without being too traditional. We achieved this with the purpose use of brick, stone, glass, and wood.

We wanted to demonstrate the MBA’s commitment to green construction by converting this building to blend in with this seemingly rural setting. Our design team, contractors and landscaping architects have done just that.

What were major challenges in the project related to building performance and how did the project team work to overcome them?

If you’re visiting here for the first time, you might think this is a new building. In a way, it is. To meet our goal of Gold LEED certification, we had to address every aspect of the existing building, including the building envelope. Achieving Gold LEED status for renovating an existing building is a challenge. We ended up taking this building back to the foundation and structural steel, including total demolition of the mechanical and electrical systems.

What are your main take-aways or lessons learned from this project? Have these lessons informed other projects?

Being so closely involved in every aspect of this project gave us a renewed appreciation for how complex the design and construction process has become from the owner’s perspective. We have learned a lot through this entire process, and it has reminded us again why we enjoy this industry as much as we do. It has renewed our respect for everyone involved in the design and construction professions. We have some tremendously talented individuals from architects, engineers, contractors and the skilled craftsmen that transform the design into reality.