This modest 2 1/2 story home was relatively unchanged since its construction in 1925. Its chief virtue was its location, backing on to scenic Frick Park in the Point Breeze section of Pittsburgh.
![house on the park Mary Cerrone Architecture & Interiors Pittsburgh](https://www.marycerrone.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/house-on-the-park-existing-back-mary-cerrone-architect-pittsburgh.jpg)
park facade before
Expanding the home’s footprint and volume without overwhelming its modest scale and narrow lot presented many design challenges. We therefore carefully enlarged the size and form with a simple, continuous shed roof addition that spans from a new ridge beam to a broad, south-facing overhang. Raising the roof ridge created a sunny third floor as well as a dramatic master bedroom under a sloped ceiling.
![house on the park Mary Cerrone Architecture & Interiors Pittsburgh](https://www.marycerrone.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/house-on-the-park-existing-attic-mary-cerrone-architect-pittsburgh.jpg)
attic before
The owners acted as general contractor, and completed much of the labor themselves – from gutting the structure down to its frame, excavating the basement, insulating and air sealing, to building the stone terrace against the park backdrop. The 2-1/2 story addition expands the home’s height and footprint from 1,400 sf to 2,400 sf. The project scope also included a fully renovated exterior, with a 21st century weather-tight envelope and high efficiency mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems.