Ongoing redevelopment efforts in Pittsburgh’s Homestead neighborhood include the transformation of a historic Woolworth’s into four live/work lofts.
Located at 213-215 E. 8th Ave. and developed by David Lewis and Judi Tener, the "5 and 10 Lofts" project features two-story rental units ranging in size from 1,250 to 1,450 square feet. Boasting the first green roof on a historic building in Allegheny County—funded via a grant from 3 Rivers Wet Weather— the project includes two properties built in 1885 and 1901. Units start at $1,245 per month; one unit has already been rented.
“We had no intention of doing this until CVS wanted to knock down part of the historic district. To stop the destruction, my wife and I bought buildings on each side of the street. It’s been a ten-year saga,” says Lewis, founder of Urban Design Associates, who purchased the fire-damaged property in 1998. “In effect, we bought three walls and charred rafters. We reconstructed the back façade and put in internal staircases. They’re like little maisonettes.”
Also fueling Homestead’s revitalization is a mixed-use restoration of a historic bakery developed by Charlie Batch, GAI’s new headquarters, a new medical building, and new residential units spearheaded by architect Walter Haglund. “We’re gradually building a critical mass. There’s a tremendous amount of effort we’re undertaking in the main street and residential areas,” adds Lewis. “We’re trying to turn Seventh Avenue into a shopping street, since it faces the Waterfront.”
Lewis and Tener are also rehabilitating a property located across the street, where they plan to develop a cookery store and additional lofts.
Writer: Jennifer Baron
Justin CummingsSources: David Lewis, 5 and 10 Lofts; , Howard Hanna Real Estate Services
Image courtesy Howard Hanna Real Estate Services
From:
POP CITY
May 21, 2008
