Fifth Avenue Place: A Majestic Landmark in Pittsburgh
Fifth Avenue Place, initially known as “Hillman Tower” and occasionally referred to as “Highmark Place,” stands tall as a symbol of architectural innovation and urban development in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States.
History
The construction of this monumental skyscraper commenced in 1985 and was completed on the 14th of April, 1988, becoming the home of Highmark subsidiary Jenkins Empire Associates.
A Tragic Accident
During the construction phase, a crane operator named David Angle tragically lost his life in an accident. He is remembered not only for his contribution to the construction of Fifth Avenue Place but also as the father of future Olympic wrestler and professional wrestler Kurt Angle.
Architecture
Designed by Stubbins Associates in collaboration with WTW Architects, Fifth Avenue Place showcases a unique and mesmerizing architectural design.
A Granite Marvel
The edifice rises to a height of 616 feet above Downtown Pittsburgh, majestically marking the city’s skyline. The structure is predominantly made up of a distinctive granite frame rising to approximately the first 450 feet, after which it beautifully collapses inward in a pyramidal shape for another 124 feet.
Roof Design
The roof of Fifth Avenue Place is a work of art in itself. It comprises four prisms clad in granite and encloses a penthouse area that houses the mechanics for the building as well as the cooling towers. This pyramidal roof stands tall at 124 feet.
The Mast
Protruding from the top of the skyscraper is a 178-foot-tall mast manufactured by Meyer Industry of Minnesota. Despite its rounded appearance, the 13-story steel structure is actually 12-sided and measures four feet in diameter. To accommodate high winds, the mast allows for up to three feet of sway.
Location
Situated at the corner of Liberty Avenue and Fifth Avenue, the building perfectly fits into the urban fabric of the city, enhancing its overall aesthetics and functionality.
Usage
Fifth Avenue Place is not just a towering beauty but a bustling hub of activity. It encompasses a shopping center on the first two floors, 29 floors of office space, and a three-level underground garage for up to 250 vehicles.
Renovation of Commercial Space
In September 2019, a renovation of the commercial space was announced with a primary focus on dining. The remodeled shopping mall was planned to include an open atrium, more natural lighting, and other amenities. The renovation was completed in May 2023, giving the mall a fresh, modern look.
Impact on the Cityscape
While Fifth Avenue Place is a marvel of modern architecture, it has been met with mixed reviews. Some critics argue that its overscaled windows and arbitrary jumps between glass- and granite-paneled outer skin are unavoidable blemishes in the first view any Pittsburgh visitor gets coming in from the airport.
However, others consider it an iconic part of the city’s skyline, contributing to Pittsburgh’s unique identity. Despite differing opinions, there’s no denying that Fifth Avenue Place is a key part of Pittsburgh’s architectural narrative and urban development.
Fifth Avenue Place is not just a skyscraper; it’s a testament to Pittsburgh’s architectural innovation, urban development, and cultural identity. It stands tall as a symbol of the city’s past, present, and future.
