RSH Architects was commissioned by the Lutheran Service Society of Western Pennsylvania to design a multi-unit housing development to serve the elderly.  The project design parameters dictated that each unit have secure access, maximum natural light and amenities suitable for elderly occupants.

The Project site required careful placement of the two structures to achieve maximum useful density while complimenting the residential character of the surrounding Spring Garden neighborhood.  Building exterior detailing creates vertical divisions of mass in proportion to adjoining single family row-houses.

The project was constructed without any public funding or subsidy, yet achieves the same quality of space found in similar units constructed under HUD funded programs.  All requirements for accessible units, code related life safety systems and construction materials required by such programs became the basis of technical design, and in some cases were augmented at the request of the client.  Specific attention to room size, furniture layout and site landscaping make St. Michael Village a functional and pleasant environment for its low-income residents.