Orthophosphate Pavilions

Architecture has always been an essential part of Pittsburgh’s water infrastructure. PWSA’s two Orthophosphate Pavilions are the newest additions to the working landscapes of historic Highland Park. As lead architect, evolveEA designed the pavilions to highlight natural surroundings, pay tribute to historical prowess, and provide critical function to the city of Pittsburgh.

PWSA’s orthophosphate buildings house pumps and storage tanks that distribute orthophosphate, an additive that forms a protective coating in lead pipes, to two-thirds of the city. The carefully sited and detailed pavilions reveal Highland Park’s legacy of architecture as infrastructure.

The main structure, located across from Reservoir #1 and the Membrane Filtration Plant, visually anchors the one-way drive sequence through the park. Familiar materials coupled with contemporary detailing celebrate the historic context and lends a tactile quality to the experience of the pavilion. Custom cut perforated metal louvres evoke imagery of flowing water and allude to the building’s function as a critical piece of the city’s water infrastructure.

From within the high-ceiling shelter, visitors command a view over a rejuvenated picnic grove. The woodland patio also serves as an accessible trailhead for a “water walk” that features other park infrastructure and gives glimpses of the Aspinwall Pump Station across the Allegheny River.

Familiar materials coupled with contemporary detailing celebrate the historic context and lends a tactile quality to the experience of the pavilion. Custom cut perforated metal louvres evoke imagery of flowing water and allude to the building’s function as a critical piece of the city’s water infrastructure.