An open patch of grass surrounded on three sides by high-rises and by a multi-story parking garage on the fourth side, was transformed into the 8th Street Park in downtown Pittsburgh.
As is the case with many public parks, the focal point of the 8th Street Park is an art installation, taking the form of a large, illuminated cube. However, where this park’s installation differs from most, is that it is a functional piece of art. On each of the cubes four outward facing sides is a space for dispensing water, both still and sparkling, for free. The hope is that the Cube will encourage people to use reusable water bottles and lessen the stress on the environment caused by plastic, disposable bottles. Pulsing LED lights make the Cube easy to spot after dark.
In addition to helping to eliminate the use of plastic bottles, a new pervious paver system was added to the space to allow more water to naturally percolate into the ground instead of making its way into the City’s storm water lines.
The Cube is made of glass and measures 5.5 feet on all sides. It sits atop an 18-inch cylindrical stainless steel base. Other elements of the park include steel and aluminum benches and bike racks. Additionally, abundant planting and mounding of the earth along the side bordering the parking lot helps to obscure the view of the structure and the cars.
The 2,000-sf project, which was designed by GBBN Architects, was awarded an AIA Ohio Merit Award.
Related Stories
Green | Apr 12, 2019
L.A. County’s first sustainability plan tackles carbon, air quality, transportation, resilience
The plan aims for net-zero carbon by 2050.
Sustainable Design and Construction | Apr 9, 2019
One of the largest zero-carbon, net-zero buildings is rising in Spokane
Catalyst will be part of an innovation hub, with Eastern Washington University as its main tenant.
Codes and Standards | Apr 8, 2019
LEED v4.1 now available for cities, communities, residential/homes
The rating system emphasizes performance monitoring, fully integrated design, social equity, and human health.
Green | Apr 8, 2019
New USGBC research explores green building industry’s role in highlighting the importance of buildings as a global solution
First wave of research is part of the Living Standard initiative, which seeks to raise the quality of life for people around the world through research and storytelling.
Green | Jan 28, 2019
This is the country’s greenest academic building
Perkins+Will designed the building.
Green | Nov 15, 2018
USGBC launches LEED Zero, to address net zero carbon operations and resources in LEED green building projects
LEED Zero complements LEED to verify the achievement of net zero goals and signals market leadership in green buildings.
Green | Oct 17, 2018
USGBC survey suggests employees are happier, healthier, and more productive in LEED green buildings
Can healthier, more sustainable buildings give employers a hiring edge to attract best in class talent?
Green | Oct 15, 2018
Green, and then some: Architecture firms are helping cities raise the stakes in green design
Architecture firms are answering the call of local governments and institutional clients for higher standards in green building design.
Green | Sep 11, 2018
Chicago becomes seventh city in the world to achieve LEED for Cities Platinum certification
It is the highest level of certification available from the U.S. Green Building Council.
Green | Aug 28, 2018
Chattanooga’s Miller Park set to open after $10.3 million overhaul
Spackman Mossop Michaels and Eskew Dumez Ripple partnered on the project.
