The revitalization of the historic Terminal Building in Pittsburgh’s Strip District introduced the Novo Asian Food Hall, transforming the space into a dynamic culinary destination. Once a thriving hub of merchant activity, the project was inspired by the Urban Pop concept, which draws from the vibrant streets of Asian cities and villages. The design evokes bustling streetscapes, with vendor-style stalls, wood-paneled facades, vivid murals, paper lanterns, and graffiti, all blending to create an energetic and eclectic atmosphere. This seamless fusion of past and present honors the building’s historic roots while offering a modern, immersive experience that captivates visitors.

Built within the shell & structure of Pittsburgh’s iconic Terminal Building, the industrial building’s steel frame and clerestory glazing creates a dramatic open space as a framework to design within. The food venues float within the space, preserving the open two-story volume and allowing for ample dining space for occupants. Furthermore, preserving the iconic building in the Strip District acknowledges the historic merchant operations that defined the region.

An integral design component to Novo is the art installations that contribute to the eclectic environment. To achieve the desired concept, local art students were contracted to paint the plywood panel cladding on the food venues, alongside Taiwanese graphic designers who created the Asian food inspired wall graphics. The concept of a culture-inspired Food Hall inherently lends itself to equitable communities, with all venues being family owned and operated preparing food inspired by and to celebrate their common cultural backgrounds.

Built in 1929, the Terminal Building has withstood the test of time.  The design of Novo respects that resiliency. The food venues are constructed as plywood boxes that sit within the two-story space, taking care not to disrupt the grand volume and embracing the adaptability to transform the Novo space from produce hub to Food Hall.