Single Family Residence Recipient of the AIA Pittsburgh 2004 Honor Award for Design Excellence and the 2004 Columbia Gas People's Choice Award Project Description This new house sits on the site of a former two-bedroom, one-story ranch house that had a basement and a one-car integral garage. The original backyard was level, but completely paved with concrete. An in-ground kidney-shaped pool was wedged along one side of the house. In theory, the house had great views out over Shadyside, East Liberty and beyond. In reality, however, a windowless brick wall with a fireplace stood between a small living room and the dramatic view. By tearing down 85% of the structure, we transformed the house to take advantage of its unrealized dramatic views as well as to open up to what became a lush garden in a wooded setting. This compact, L-shaped house incorporates many of the ideas featured in Sarah Susanka's book, "The Not So Big House". It features an open living space that wraps around and connects to an 80' x 35' private garden. The open kitchen, living and dining spaces also look out over Pittsburgh's picturesque East End, particularly when the leaves are down. The lower level features a two-car integral garage and a home office. The cozy second floor "away" room takes advantage of the view, too. Location Squirrel Hill Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Size 2,800 sq. ft. Construction Cost $250,000 Completion Date 2002