PHOTOS BY EXPOSURE IT REAL ESTATE MEDIA

When the owner of Unit 208 at 2419 Smallman St. purchased her home in 2017, the Strip District was in a state of flux as it evolved from a section of Pittsburgh teeming with warehouses and produce to a burgeoning residential area filled with trendy bars and retail shops.  

“Since then, it’s incredible how much it’s developed,” the owner, who asked to remain anonymous, told Pittsburgh Magazine in an email.

At just over 1,000 square feet, the compact home is perfectly designed for city living without feeling cramped. In the kitchen are top-of-the-line appliances, including a Sub Zero refrigerator with wine fridge and Wolf six-burner range. The thick marble countertops and custom cabinetry are offset by Restoration Hardware fixtures. 

“This home reminds me of a luxury boutique hotel,” says Realtor Kristen Gallo of Compass, who has listed the condo for $650,000. 

The kitchen, which has seating for four at a breakfast bar, opens into a dining area with room for a full-sized table and a living room flooded with light, thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows. Recessed lighting and updated flooring, as well as neutral paint colors, mean the flexible space works well for a variety of different setups. A smaller table could also create a space for remote work while leaving plenty of room for full-sized couches and an entertainment center, too. 

Beyond the luxury kitchen and comfortable living space, the ensuite bathroom is designed to wow. A large freestanding soaking tub located within the walk-in shower is the centerpiece of the spacious bathroom. The bathroom also includes a sizable sink and vanity, as well as a second sink located in the water closet with the toilet. The toilet can be accessed from both the bedroom and the common area so that guests do not need to walk through private spaces in the home. 

“The kitchen seamlessly flows into the living and dining area, which is enhanced with an abundance of natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows,” Gallo says. “This creates a warm and inviting space ideal for both intimate gatherings and entertaining.”

Custom wallpaper from Schumacher is hung throughout the home, but really shows off in the bathroom where bold patterns set off the high-end finishes. Beyond the bathroom, a large walk-in closet with laundry and built-in organization system provides ample storage. The unit also includes additional storage in the basement of the building. 

The condo also includes the use of a shared courtyard with a grill and fire pit for all residents. 

“We have a social committee that hosts barbecues and summer events in the courtyard,” says the owner. “We’ve celebrated birthdays, baby showers, going away parties, dine-arounds and so much more.”

She adds the neighborhood surrounding the condo building keeps the party going, too. Beyond The Strip’s eclectic vendors, it’s also home to a number of well-regarded eateries. 

“The Strip has always been home to fabulous local markets and true Pittsburgh history,” the owner says. “Now, we’re home to some of the best restaurants in town, and amazing amenities and entertainment within walking distance.” 

Gallo notes that there are several incentives for buyers right now, including a tax abatement that runs through 2026. The condo’s HOA fees includes water, sewer, maintenance and snow removal, as well as use of the included common areas and fitness center. The home also includes parking. 

“If you’re the type of person who truly has an appreciation for the finer things in life and wants to be in the center of the thriving Strip District, this is the perfect home for you,” says Gallo. 

The owner says the home met her every need, as well as exceeded her expectations. She will miss the space just as much as the friends she made along the way. 

“This condo isn’t just a place, it’s a community,” she says. “Neighbors truly look out for one another.”

Meg St-Esprit is a Bellevue-based freelance journalist who covers real estate, lifestyle, education, parenting and travel for a variety of local outlets including Pittsburgh Magazine, PublicSource, Kidsburgh, Pittsburgh City Paper, and City Cast Pittsburgh. Meg offers Hot Property, an inside look into unique and historic homes on the market. Each week, Hot Property goes behind the For Sale sign to share the story of a special Pittsburgh-area home.

About: The Strip District
Population: 1,471
Planes, Trains & Automobiles: While this home has two deeded parking spaces, the next owners would not necessarily need vehicles. The home is positioned near public transit, including buses and the T. The location also means it’s a snap to get on any major highway to access the suburbs and the airport. There are also bike lanes that connect the neighborhood to other areas of the city, plus ample storage for bicycles.
Schools: Pittsburgh Public Schools (pghschools.org)
Neighborhood: The Strip District is a hub of commerce and retail shops as well as a home to some of the city’s best restaurants. Those who live in the neighborhood have instant access to shopping, dining and entertainment every day of the week. From outdoor concerts and festivals to the Heinz History Center, there is always something going on.