Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse, now open, has a new location in the historic confines of the Union Trust building in downtown Pittsburgh. Designed by hospitality design firm, Aria Group, the intention was to create the next chapter of the Del Frisco’s Double Eagle brand under Landry’s new ownership.
The design set out to honor the roots of this classic American steakhouse, well-known for mouth-watering steaks and extensive award-winning wine list, and define this exceptional experience through history and elegance. Being nestled in an extraordinary building, in a remarkable city, Aria Group did not have to look far for inspiration.
“It began with an appreciation for the history of the site and the city,” explained project designer Elizabeth Neuffer. “An acknowledgment of our ability to encapsulate the essence of this building and lovingly house within it a contemporary design.”
To integrate the design seamlessly into the cityscape surrounding it, this Double Eagle location features multiple ‘archways’ representative of the numerous bridges found throughout the Steel City. Each archway was custom fabricated by Wiemann Metalcraft and features an internal illumination to give it a modern edge. Other ornamental metalwork is on display such as twisted balustrades, decorative newel posts and embellished stair railings. These intricate and vintage designs were born from the historic metal partitions found in the safety deposit vaults at the lower levels of the Union Trust Building.
The heart of the 9,950 square foot restaurant is found at the center of the main dining level. Where history and function are interrupted with elegance and modernism. The design team exposed four structural steel columns, showcasing the preserved skeletal components that support the building. The lit archways, affixed to the riveted antiquated columns, frame a monumental light fixture. A mirrored coffered ceiling above and semi-circle booths below give these tables the best spot to see and be seen.
The design also pays homage to other existing finishes found throughout the Flemish-Gothic building. Crema cross-cut travertine clads the walls and the surviving monolithic stone staircase, also formed of travertine, was refinished, and brought into the 21st century with new tiled treads. The well-worn brass handrail was left intact and acts as a touch of antiquity as it leads up to the private dining area on the mezzanine level.
Intricate millwork paneling and substantial crown moldings refine and elevate. Thick coats of plaster and reclaimed brick characterize and dignify. These and other heavily patinated materials pay homage to the artisanship, dedication and hard work that goes into this community. After all, to reflect upon a storied history and honor a great city, the space needed to be rich in texture, warmth and monumentality to truly capture the people who make it that way.
