Lea's Floral Shop: Modern Commercial Retail & Urban Revitalization

Project Narrative

Revitalizing East McKeesport through Modern Design

Rising from the ashes of a tragic 2021 fire, the new Lea’s Floral Shop represents a significant investment in the resilience and future of East McKeesport’s historic 5th Avenue district. David Stumpf Architecture was commissioned to design a facility that honored the business's 60-year legacy while introducing a modern architectural aesthetic to the borough’s streetscape.

Maximizing Site Yield & Operational Efficiency

The primary design challenge was fitting a complex commercial program onto a constrained urban lot. Applying rigorous spatial planning, David Stumpf Architecture maximized the buildable envelope to achieve nearly 7,500 square feet of usable space.

The facility is engineered for operational flow, seamlessly integrating three distinct zones:

1. Retail Showroom: A client-facing space designed for browsing and consultation.

2. Production & Cold Storage: High-efficiency back-of-house areas optimized for floral preservation and arrangement assembly.

3. Administrative Offices: Private workspaces to support business growth.

Urban Integration & Accessibility

Unlike typical commercial developments that turn away from the sidewalk, this design engages the historic fabric of the community. A prominent, welcoming staircase draws pedestrian traffic from the street level into the showroom, reinforcing the walkability of the downtown district. To ensure inclusivity, a dedicated accessible entrance is integrated near the private parking lot, utilizing Universal Design principles to provide a welcoming experience for all visitors.

This project stands as a case study in how Boutique Craft design can drive commercial revitalization in established communities.