Rafael Viñoly Architects, NYC, has broken ground on the David L Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh. Viñoly won the US$218 million contract through an international competition. The New York practice’s design was chosen unanimously by the nine-member jury. The 135,000-square-metre scheme presents a roof shaped like a suspension bridge over column free space. It has been described as an, “urban wedge.” Viñoly’s successful design pays homage to the city’s tradition of engineering excellence and its powerful urban form. The suspension bridge-like form pays homage to the city’s early bridge designers. Completion is slated for 2003.
From officeinsightTM