Mellon Square

Historic Design

Completed in 1955, Mellon Square occupies 1.37 acres above an underground parking garage, making it one of the earliest examples of a modern garden plaza built over parking.

The square features a distinctive Modernist design with triangular-patterned paving made of marble from Belgium, Italy, and Maryland. Mature American Sweetgum trees provide shade, while raised planters contain shrubs and seasonal flowers.

Bronze fountains and granite benches offer places for visitors to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Urban Oasis

Mellon Square serves as an urban oasis in Pittsburgh's central business district, providing office workers, shoppers, and tourists with a public space to gather, have lunch, or simply enjoy a quiet moment amid the cityscape.

Its elevated design helps reduce street noise and creates a sense of enclosure, with surrounding skyscrapers forming a visual wall around the perimeter.

History and Philanthropy

The park was created through the philanthropy of the Mellon family, particularly banker Richard King Mellon, as part of efforts to revitalize downtown Pittsburgh and retain major businesses in the area.

It was designed by the landscape architecture firm Simonds & Simonds and architects Mitchell & Ritchey.

Restoration

In 2014, Mellon Square underwent a major restoration to preserve its historic design while enhancing its functionality for modern users.

The project included repairs to the fountains, improved lighting, new plantings, and the addition of a terrace over Smithfield Street to create more public space.