quatrini law group

quatrini law group | strip district – pittsburgh, pa
interior-architecture  |  interior office renovation

Transforming a former 8,629 SF restaurant into the modern law offices for Quatrini Law Group (VESP LLC) required adapting a highly specialized building structure to a complex new program.

The core obstacles included stringent building codes, a complex program study, and redefining the building’s identity.

Code & Safety: We addressed critical egress and life safety concerns within the unique existing envelope while successfully preserving 2,320 SF of existing commercial kitchen space for a separate tenant. This required expert navigation of complex code, zoning restrictions, and the city’s rigorous approval process.

Programmatic Fit: Expanding the program to accommodate the owner’s needs included creating a functional training center despite limited ceiling heights. Achieving this required an iterative study to optimize space and strategically avoid the need for costly elevator installation.

Repositioning: Repositioning the building’s identity to shed its former restaurant association and establish a strong professional presence was complicated by significant delays in obtaining city approvals, particularly for demolition and exterior modifications.

The Solution: The design solution employed by lee CALISTI architecture+design used a rigorous programmatic zoning strategy to seamlessly integrate the new law office function within the existing constraints.

Programmatic Zoning Strategy: The building was divided into three distinct zones—public/client-facing, private offices, and support—all oriented North-South. The transitional spaces between these zones were treated as distinct “streets” that inform the building’s flow and spatial connections.

Material Palette: This strategy was reinforced by a carefully curated material palette, including wood panels, porcelain tile, and two carpet tile colors used as a visual-hierarchy cue that enhances the character of each zone and guides occupants. The focus was on creating distant views and spatial clarity.

The Result: A Contemporary and Functional New Presence The finished project is a contemporary, functional law office that successfully respects the building’s history while establishing a strong new identity. This process effectively integrated a demanding program, resulting in a high-performing space that fosters employee engagement and is a true reflection of the law firm’s brand and professionalism.

Project Type: Commercial Office Interiors (Exterior entry renovations)
Project location – Pittsburgh, PA
Design and Construction: September 2023 – October 2025
Square footage involved – 8,629 SF (First Floor 5,690 SF / Second Floor 2,940 SF)
Completion: October 2025

Owner: VESP LLC d/b/a Quatrini Law Group
Architect + Interior Design: lee CALISTI architecture+design
Architectural Design Advisor: Barry Wm. Morris, R.A.
MEP Engineering Consultant: Claitman Engineering Associates
Structural Engineering Consultant: Anderson Structural Inc.
G.C. NAI Burns Scalo Development + Construction
Signage: Advance Signs