What a surprise this was. The other week in Pittsburgh I was walking from the ToonSeum to the Mattress Factory. I took an alternate route and came across this perfect little landmarked building. Turns out it was the home and studio of Pittsburgh architect Frederick J. Osterling (1865-1934). Research revealed a number of buildings that weren't especially interesting or innovative, but with the occasional moment of architectural grace. But this building? This shit is magic. I will pretty much spend the rest of my life envying its present inhabitants. All it takes is one great building, kids. And this is a great building.
Check out The Union Trust Building. Like I said: Not especially interesting or innovative, but definitely some moments of grace, especially near the top and the way he takes you there. Plus, some fascinating restrictions were placed on the building by its previous owners, the Diocese of Pittsburgh.
4 comments:
What a fantastic find!
what an unbelievable building... will have so snoop around to see inside pics...
Yes, I came across that one right after I moved to the city.
It's a bit dry, but this book covers most of Pittsburgh's historic buildings and is filled with the little known ones.
http://www.amazon.com/Pittsburgh-Urban-Portrait-Franklin-Toker/dp/0822954346
Franklin Tolker now has a newer version out.
This weekend Right To Life Convention at The airport and giant furry convention Downtown.
Last year the visiting Mets staying and were kept awake by all night yiffing and lost to the Pirates.
sroden: Yes. If the light had been on I might have actually knocked on the door, which is something I don't normally do, but here. . .
JM: I'll check it out. I really love the Union Trust Bldg, but I don't think I've seen it since I was a kid.
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