John Fetterman’s House, the current Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania, has gained national attention not only for his political career but also for the unique home he shares with his wife Gisele in Braddock, Pennsylvania. This blog post will explore the architecture and special features of the Fetterman family’s residence, which is housed in a former industrial building and reflects their commitment to sustainability and community revitalization.
A Brief History of Braddock, PA
Braddock, Pennsylvania, where the Fetterman home is located, has a rich industrial history dating back to the 18th century. The town was founded in 1771 and named after General Edward Braddock, a British military officer who led an ill-fated expedition during the French and Indian War. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Braddock became a hub of steel production, with the nearby Carnegie Steel Company playing a significant role in the town’s development.
Over time, Braddock’s economy and population declined as the steel industry waned. However, in recent years, the town has undergone a revitalization effort led by John Fetterman, who served as the town’s mayor from 2005 to 2019. Fetterman’s initiatives have aimed to breathe new life into Braddock, focusing on community development, sustainability, and the preservation of the town’s historical character.
Overview of John Fetterman’s House
John Fetterman’s house is located in the heart of Braddock, at the address 1001 Braddock Avenue. The building was previously home to the Superior Motors restaurant, a local landmark that closed in 2016. Fetterman and his wife, Gisele, purchased the property and undertook an extensive renovation to transform it into their family home.
The building’s architectural style is a blend of Victorian-era design elements and modern sustainable features. The exterior features a striking red brick facade, with large windows and a prominent roofline that reflects the building’s industrial heritage. Inside, the home boasts 12-foot-high ceilings, stained glass windows, and a variety of salvaged and repurposed materials that give the space a unique character.
Architectural Highlights
Exterior Features
The exterior of the Fetterman home is a testament to the building’s industrial past and the family’s commitment to sustainability. The red brick facade, which was meticulously restored during the renovation, is a nod to the town’s steel-making history. The large windows and high ceilings allow for ample natural light, while the landscaping and outdoor spaces, including a small garden, create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere.
Interior Design
The interior of the Fetterman home is a reflection of the family’s eclectic tastes and their dedication to repurposing and reusing materials. The 12-foot-high ceilings, stained glass windows, and salvaged materials, such as eBay finds and Tollgate Revival furniture, create a warm and visually striking environment. The layout of the home is designed to be open and flexible, with the living, dining, and kitchen areas seamlessly integrated.
Special Features
In addition to the architectural and design elements, the Fetterman home also features several modern amenities and sustainable features. The home is equipped with soundproof windows, which help to reduce noise from the surrounding area, and the family has incorporated various green design principles, such as the use of reclaimed and energy-efficient materials.
The Renovation Process
When the Fettermans purchased the former Superior Motors building, it was in a state of disrepair. The family’s vision was to transform the space into a sustainable and community-focused home that would reflect their values and serve as a hub for their various initiatives in Braddock.
The renovation process was a lengthy and challenging undertaking, but the Fettermans were determined to preserve the building’s historical character while incorporating modern amenities and sustainable design elements. They worked closely with architects and contractors to overcome various obstacles, such as structural issues and the need to comply with local building codes.
The Fetterman Family’s Influence
John and Gisele Fetterman are deeply involved in the Braddock community and their home reflects their commitment to the town’s revitalization. John Fetterman, who served as the town’s mayor for over a decade, has spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at addressing issues such as poverty, crime, and urban decay. Gisele Fetterman, in turn, has been actively involved in the community through her work with the Free Store Braddock, a nonprofit organization that provides free goods and services to local residents.
The Fetterman home serves as a hub for the family’s community engagement efforts, hosting events and serving as a gathering place for local residents. The home’s design and features, such as the car lofts and the Free Store Braddock, are a reflection of the family’s values and their desire to create a space that is both functional and meaningful to the Braddock community.
Conclusion
John Fetterman’s house in Braddock, Pennsylvania, is a unique and inspiring example of how architecture and design can be used to support community revitalization efforts. The Fetterman family’s commitment to sustainability, repurposing, and community engagement is evident in every aspect of their home, from the salvaged materials to the integration of the Free Store Braddock.
As Braddock continues to evolve and grow, the Fetterman home stands as a symbol of the town’s resilience and the power of grassroots initiatives to transform communities. Visitors to Braddock are encouraged to explore the Fetterman home and learn more about the family’s contributions to the town’s ongoing revitalization.
