Wexford Science + Technology, University of Pittsburgh, The Assembly

The Assembly, a revitalized historic Ford Motor Plant in Pittsburgh, is a beacon of the city's commitment to innovation. Through a collaboration between the University of Pittsburgh and Wexford Science & Technology, this once bustling Model T production hub has been transformed into a cutting-edge life sciences development, merging the city’s rich industrial heritage with the future of biomedical research.

The University of Pittsburgh's primary goal was to create an eight-story innovation hub within this historic structure, supporting groundbreaking research in immunotherapy, cancer, chronic diseases, aging, and transplantation. Achieving this vision required an integrated and efficient approach that carefully addressed potential risks, including system conflicts, controls interoperability, and building enclosure performance.

BranchPattern was engaged to provide Whole Building Commissioning & Testing services across five phases of the project. Our team conducted system selection evaluations, comprehensive design reviews, and onsite validation of critical systems, helping to ensure a seamless integration of new biotech lab spaces within the historic building and the construction of a new tower with flexible lab spaces.

Our Enclosure Commissioning services were pivotal in balancing historic preservation with modern performance standards. We addressed the unique requirements of the historic structure, enhancing durability and condensation control. Key areas of risk, such as masonry parapets and sills, were identified, leading to the specification of water repellents and additional flashing. We also reviewed assembly designs and transition details to mitigate air leakage, providing regular site observations to ensure proper installation.

The most significant sustainability achievement of this project is the revitalization of an underutilized historic building in a dense urban community, avoiding demolition and reusing over 80% of the existing structure and enclosure. This was complemented by a  20% reduction in energy consumption, a goal validated by BranchPattern's commissioning services.

The Assembly now stands as a testament to the successful transformation of a historic resource into a state-of-the-art facility for Pittsburgh's vibrant research community. This LEED Gold-certified building promotes sustainability through enhanced cleaning and disinfecting procedures, increased outside air circulation, self-cleaning surfaces, and hand sanitizer stations throughout.

BranchPattern's comprehensive commissioning approach was crucial in addressing the project’s goals and challenges, mitigating risks, and helping to ensure the smooth integration of modern research facilities within a historic structure, fostering collaboration and innovation in biomedical research.