We’ve been working with a Pittsburgh family for the design of a retreat cabin along the Allegheny River in Emlenton, Pennsylvania. The site has views up and down stream, the pine forest on the hillside across as well as an impressive vista of the the Emlenton Bridge, the highest bridge in the state. An elevated weathering-steel frame supports the living space as well as very a generous open platform. The property is at the eastern end of the town and extends to the river bank with direct access to the water. The aesthetic is ‘industrial’ and wholly in keeping with the history of Emlenton and its connection with the early US petroleum extraction and refining industry.

Adjacent to the property, the Allegheny River Trail is under development along a former railroad right-of-way. Fully realized the trail will link Pittsburgh with Erie to the north. The trail has contributed to the renewed interest in the town with cafes, a brewery as well as bed and breakfasts taking hold.