National integrated design firm SmithGroup opened an office in Pittsburgh, the company’s 13th location. SmithGroup states its new office will grow the company’s footprint in the higher-education, healthcare, urban-design and waterfront markets.

Steven Baumgartner, a principal with SmithGroup and an urban systems strategist, is the lead contact in Pittsburgh. The company notes it has strong roots in the area, including work on projects such as the Tower at PNC Plaza and Hazelwood Green, among others.

“Pittsburgh continues to transition from an economy built on manufacturing to one driven by innovation,” Baumgartner said. “Our network of experts understands the complex challenges and opportunities that come with this changing landscape.  We’ve only started to unlock the potential to connect more directly to the issues created by this transition and we’re excited for what our place in Pittsburgh’s future holds.”

This move is the latest in a pattern of growth and expansion for the firm over the past year. In November, SmithGroup opened an office in San Diego, followed by the January acquisition of healthcare design firm TRO, which has become the company’s Boston location.