Thaw Hall

Thaw Hall is a five-story academic building at the University of Pittsburgh constructed with stone, brick, and terra cotta that incorporates classical motifs from Greek design. The exterior displays detailed ornamentation and proportioned elements typical of Beaux-Arts architecture.

Architect Henry Hornbostel won a national competition in 1907 to design this structure, which opened in 1910. The project marked an important phase in the campus's early development during the 20th century.

The building houses multiple academic departments including Physics and Astronomy, Chemistry, Asian Languages, and Archaeology. Each field of study has its own spaces and laboratories throughout the structure.

The Physics department operates a dedicated Resource Room, while the Architectural Studies Program maintains a specialized laboratory within the structure. Note that certain areas may have restricted access depending on academic activities.

The building features an unconventional floor numbering system, including both a sub-basement and a mezzanine level positioned entirely above ground. This spatial arrangement was a creative solution for integrating multiple levels into the Beaux-Arts design.

Location: Pennsylvania

Architects: Henry Hornbostel

Architectural style: Beaux-Arts

GPS coordinates: 40.44516,-79.95757

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:03