Nestled in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the iconic David Lawrence Convention Center (DLCC) embarked on an ambitious roof project that transformed its skyline presence and elevated the visitor experience. This extensive renovation and enhancement initiative focused on two major components: repairing failing parts of the 60,000-square-foot, fourth-floor roof membrane and designing a new terrace that reimagines the rooftop as a vibrant, multifaceted green space. Local multidisciplinary firm Indovina Associates Architects was selected for both tasks.

The Challenge
From the outset, the client encouraged creative solutions, leading the design team to envision a unique outdoor amenity space that could accommodate a wide array of events while retaining substantial green space. This open-ended program resulted in the creation of four distinct zones on the 'T'-shaped roof: River Plaza, The Boulevard, Light Square, and The Overlook. These zones break down the vast rooftop expanse into manageable, purpose-driven areas, each offering a gathering space tailored to various activities.

River Plaza
River Plaza, which faces the Allegheny River, is the crown jewel of the new design. This area is envisioned as a flexible space capable of hosting large-scale events. Central to this purpose is the ability to place a 40-foot-wide by 160-foot-long tent at the intersection of The Boulevard and River Plaza. When raised, the tent is tied to the building, but all structural connections are concealed when the tent is taken down, turning the space into an open plaza once more.

Umbrella-like steel-and-fabric structures along the plaza provide shade from the summer sun. A series of aluminum-clad kiosks are also spaced at regular intervals to provide utility connections and work surfaces for caterers and other event-related services. The kiosks are designed to match the white building's aesthetic design. This flexibility ensures that the River Plaza can be utilized for a variety of events throughout the year, regardless of weather conditions.

 

The Overlook
The Overlook is perhaps the most visually striking area of the rooftop. Positioned to offer panoramic views of downtown Pittsburgh, The Overlook is a contemplative space where visitors can take in the cityscape. This area offers stunning vistas and serves as a prime location for photo opportunities and quiet reflection.

Light Square
Light Square is designed to capture and enhance natural light. This area is intended for smaller, more informal gatherings, with reflective surfaces and strategically placed planters that reinforce the play of light and shadow. Light Square offers visitors a tranquil retreat that contrasts with the bustling activity of River Plaza and The Boulevard.

The Boulevard
Perpendicular to River Plaza is The Boulevard, a linear space that serves as the main thoroughfare on the convention center roof. Along The Boulevard, a series of interspersed seating pods form mini outdoor rooms. These pods create intimate gathering spots within the larger context of the rooftop, offering visitors places to relax, socialize, or conduct small meetings. The pod design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, providing sheltered areas while maintaining openness to surrounding views.

Putting The 'Green' In Green Roof
Landscaping plays a crucial role throughout the rooftop design. Along The Boulevard, a pathway meanders through a sequence of planter beds filled with various indigenous plants and sedum, creating a lush, green corridor that connects the different zones. On River Plaza, larger, more irregular planter boxes are arranged along the low edge of the sloped roof with opposing planters following the terrace edge. The planters have integral benches and lighting and contain a wide range of plantings, including a variety of indigenous trees. Some even provide produce and hops for the DLCC's food and beverage services. Native plants serve to draw in pollinators and act as a Monarch Butterfly Waystation.

Sustainability
The overall design aims to involve sustainability at every level, with integrated design processes ensuring that every element of the rooftop serves multiple purposes. Key sustainability features include energy-efficient lighting, water-saving measures, and a high-performance thermal envelope that enhances the building's energy efficiency. Beyond providing aesthetic and functional benefits, the planters also contribute to the building's insulation and stormwater management.

Visitor Engagement
Transparency is another cornerstone of the project's sustainability efforts. The design includes signage and interactive displays that educate visitors about the building's sustainable elements by explaining the benefits of green roofs, energy-efficient systems, and water-saving technologies. This educational component underscores the DLCC's commitment to sustainability and encourages visitors to consider the environmental impact of architectural design.

Connectivity to the Allegheny River is also a significant highlight of the project. The design maximizes scenic views, ensuring that visitors can enjoy the riverfront's natural beauty from various vantage points. This connection to the river enhances the rooftop's aesthetic appeal and reinforces the building's relationship with its surrounding environment. Various art installations located along this section of the project guide visitors in understanding city history and the significance of the views across the river.

Impact
The roof project added a new dimension to the David Lawrence Convention Center. By transforming the rooftop into a versatile, green, and aesthetically pleasing space, the project addressed the immediate need for roof repairs and enhanced the overall experience for visitors, providing them with unique outdoor spaces that can accommodate a wide range of activities. Whether hosting large events on River Plaza, enjoying a quiet moment at The Overlook or Light Square, or exploring the green pathways along The Boulevard, visitors will find new and exciting ways to engage with the DLCC. The completed project stands as a testament to the power of innovation in landscape architecture as well as the importance of sustainable design in creating spaces that enrich our lives and communities.