Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Award-Winning Architectural Design Firm in Pittsburgh
PWWG Architecture has been a leader in architectural design for over 50 years, specializing in urban, campus, and historic contexts. Our firm blends history, innovation, and community impact to create sustainable solutions that respect the past while serving present and future needs. With studios in Pittsburgh and Cincinnati, we deliver award-winning projects across the United States, including cultural institutions, educational facilities, and mixed-use developments. Our team of LEED-accredited professionals prioritizes thoughtful design, preservation, and architectural craft, ensuring buildings contribute positively to their environments. Recognized nationally for projects like Cincinnati Music Hall and MuseumLab, we maintain a commitment to client collaboration, ethical practices, and community stewardship.Our expertise in adaptive reuse and historic preservation has revitalized blighted urban areas, earning accolades from organizations like AIA and Preservation Pennsylvania. With 7 LEED-accredited team members and certifications in multiple sustainability frameworks, we integrate energy efficiency and durability into every project. As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, we continue to innovate while honoring our founding principles of quality design and social responsibility.
Services
Urban Architecture
Campus Design
Historic Preservation
Sustainable Design
Adaptive Reuse
Details
- Year established: 1975
Highlights and features
- We have 50+ years of experience in urban, campus, and historic architecture.
- Our team includes 7 LEED-accredited professionals with specialized preservation expertise.
- We've completed 12 LEED-certified projects, including 7 Gold-level certifications.
- Our work has revitalized historic districts in Pittsburgh and Cincinnati since 1975.
- We maintain 3 Enterprise Green Communities certifications for sustainable housing projects.
Associations and certifications
- LEED
- Enterprise Green Communities
- WELL
- Passive House
Services
Urban Architecture
Our urban architecture practice transforms cityscapes through modern infill projects and adaptive reuse. We specialize in reconnecting fragmented urban areas by repurposing historic buildings while creating contemporary structures that respect their surroundings. With expertise in 12 LEED-certified projects, we deliver sustainable solutions that enhance community connectivity and economic vitality across eight states.
Campus Design
We create dynamic campus environments that foster learning and collaboration. Our work includes master planning, classroom buildings, and residential facilities that balance historical context with modern educational needs. From Penn State's Millennium Science Complex to La Roche University's Palumbo Science Center, we design spaces that support academic excellence and student engagement.
Historic Preservation
Specializing in historic tax credit projects, we breathe new life into culturally significant buildings. Our team has restored landmarks like Cincinnati Music Hall and Pittsburgh's Bayard School Lofts while maintaining architectural integrity. With expertise in mid-century and pre-war structures, we ensure historic buildings meet modern standards without compromising their heritage value.
Sustainable Design
Our sustainable approach prioritizes energy efficiency and environmental stewardship across all project types. With 7 LEED-accredited professionals and certifications in multiple frameworks, we integrate passive design strategies and renewable materials. From WELL-certified spaces to Passive House standards, we create buildings that minimize environmental impact while maximizing occupant well-being.
Adaptive Reuse
We specialize in transforming underutilized structures into vibrant new spaces. Our adaptive reuse projects like the 21c Museum Hotels and MuseumLab demonstrate our ability to merge historical elements with contemporary functionality. By preserving embodied energy in existing buildings, we deliver cost-effective, environmentally responsible solutions that maintain community character.
People
Leonard Perfido
Founder Emeritus
Founded PWWG in 1975 and pioneered Pittsburgh's preservation movement. Led transformative projects like the Penn-Liberty Historic District revitalization. Recognized with AIA honors and VISTA award for arts contributions. Now retired in Florida after shaping the firm's legacy of urban revitalization.
Andreas Lange
Principal
LEED-accredited architect with expertise in historic preservation and urban design. Leads complex adaptive reuse projects that balance heritage conservation with modern functionality. Brings specialized knowledge of building science and sustainable preservation techniques to the firm's award-winning projects across multiple states.
Jennifer Szczesniak
Principal
Certified WELL AP professional focusing on creating healthy, sustainable environments. Specializes in campus and educational facility design that enhances learning experiences. Combines technical expertise with community engagement to deliver projects that meet both functional needs and environmental standards.
Anthony Pitassi
Managing Principal
Licensed architect with extensive experience in urban historic preservation. Oversees firm operations while maintaining active involvement in significant projects. Specializes in navigating complex regulatory environments for historic buildings while ensuring modern functionality and sustainability compliance.
Lisa Carver
Principal
AIA-certified architect with deep expertise in campus architecture and educational facilities. Leads design teams in creating innovative learning environments that respect institutional history while accommodating modern pedagogical needs. Focuses on sustainable solutions that enhance campus connectivity and student engagement.
Questions
What architectural services does PWWG Architects specialize in?
We specialize in urban architecture, campus design, historic preservation, and sustainable design. Our expertise includes adaptive reuse projects that transform historic buildings while maintaining their cultural significance.
How long has PWWG Architects been in business?
We've been creating award-winning architectural solutions since 1975, with our recent 50th-anniversary celebration marking our ongoing commitment to innovative design and community impact.
What sustainability certifications does PWWG Architects hold?
Our team includes 7 LEED-accredited professionals, and we've completed projects under Enterprise Green Communities, WELL, and Passive House standards, demonstrating our comprehensive sustainability expertise.
In which geographic areas does PWWG Architects operate?
While based in Pittsburgh and Cincinnati, we work across eight states including Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky, New York, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Maine on diverse architectural projects.
What notable awards has PWWG Architects received?
We've earned multiple AIA awards, Preservation Pennsylvania honors, and recognition from the European Centre for Architecture. Our projects like Cincinnati Music Hall have received global design accolades.
How does PWWG Architects approach historic preservation?
We combine deep historical understanding with modern building science to preserve architectural heritage. Our approach ensures historic structures meet contemporary needs while maintaining their cultural significance through careful restoration techniques.
