The Assembly | Office of Real Estate

"Undergoing a significant metamorphosis, this iconic site was reimagined as a hub for scientific research. The project encapsulates the essence of these evolving models of innovation districts, creating more integrated, sustainable, and vibrant communities." - Fancesc Zamora, Architizer

The historic building that once housed the Ford Motor Company in Pittsburgh’s Bloomfield neighborhood has gotten new life since opening in the first quarter of 2022 as a world-class biomedical research hub. Pitt and Wexford Science+Technology developed the eight-story site – The Assembly - at 5051 Centre Ave., which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The project advances the University’s mission by supporting biomedical research, collaboration and innovation.

This eight story facility encompassing over 200,000 square feet includes:

State-of-the-art lab space for researchers
Variety of conference rooms along with flexible lounge areas to spur collaboration
Three retail storefronts
Tiered parking garaged with secured bike parking room
Auditorium with 250+ seat capacity for lectures, presentations and symposiums
Multipurpose atrium and event space
Galleries throughout to highlight the building’s rich heritage

News

History of The Assembly

Built in 1915, the historic building was designed by famed architect John Graham for the Ford Motor Company as a combination factory and showroom. The first floor served as the showroom, allowing customers to drive out in a car assembled onsite. Close proximity to railways allowed workers to hoist materials directly from train cars to any of the 8 floors.

Manufacturing on location ceased in 1932, and the remaining dealership closed when the building was sold in 1953. In 2018, the shuttered building was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Many of the iconic elements—from the 8-story crane shed to the original showroom floors—were painstakingly restored during the renovation.