Originally settled in 1785, Brownsville, Pennsylvania is steeped in history. Rich in iron, the town grew from industry reflecting this natural resource. Helped along by the bordering Monongahela River, Brownsville became a major center for building steamboats through the 19th century, producing 3,000 boats by 1888. The borough developed in the late 19th century as a railroad yard and coking center, with other industries related to the rise of steel in the Pittsburgh area. The Monongahela was heavily used by industry, and several U.S. Steel plants, were built along its banks during this time.
But fortune is fickle and in 1919 much of the Commercial Historic District burned down leaving a hole in the heart of the town that was never fully restored. Brownsville has enjoyed recoveries and dealt with challenges along the way. It has been known for several prominent abandoned, condemned and boarded up buildings, but those are in fewer supply as major efforts have been implemented to restore and revitalize this beautiful city.
UpStreet Architects is one such firm charged with this task. They sought to preserve the Commercial Historic District with a combination of adaptive reuse of existing historic structures, demolition and new construction.
Among a number of their structures, we had the privilege to contribute our efforts to the Brownsville Senior Housing project.
Installed by 84 Lumber, our steel shingles (homage to the town’s history) cover the roughly 2,000 ft area of elevator shaft on this building. Using our size 16 diamond shingle with a 90 degree angle, that’s around 1,400 shingles!
The architect wanted a very random, bi-color look in the selected colors of Slate Blue and Bright Silver.
The original concept for this project was changed by the senior designer who, after thoughtful consideration, wanted an eclectic look, as if the components of the building had individually, organically appeared over time as they might have had the building been repaired all those years ago and parceled out for various owners and uses throughout the years.
The really lovely concept was that it is designed to be viewed from across the river as a welcoming bastion for neighbors and a symbol of regeneration, vitality and style.
Enjoy more project pictures:
