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AIA Pittsburgh’s Best Designs of 2025: The Premier Custom Paint & Collision Facility by NEXT Architecture
- Premier Custom Paint and Collision
- Dec 9, 2025
- 4 min read
When you drive through Zelienople, Pennsylvania, it’s hard to miss our new facility. A bold, glass-fronted building gleaming with the reflection of muscle cars and supercars alike. Our new look at Premier Custom Paint & Collision, designed by NEXT Architecture, is more than just a workspace, it’s a statement piece. A fusion of craftsmanship, community, and contemporary design that’s earned its recognition as one of AIA Pittsburgh’s Best Designs of 2025.
A Legacy Built on Passion
This expansion wasn’t just about square footage. It was about legacy. Owned and led by a father-and-son team, alongside a long-standing friendship that built the foundation of Premier, this project represents decades of hard work, passion, and perseverance in the automotive industry.
This is a major milestone for the Premier family. A leap from a 7,000 sq. ft. shop to an impressive 21,000 sq. ft. space. Our original vision included a 17,000 sq. ft. build but as we realized how much demand we had yet to meet, we knew there needed to be more. Every decision made was rooted in a simple goal: to build a space that serves not only more vehicles but also fosters the next generation of automotive technicians, painters, and detailers.
Design That Mirrors the Heart of Zelienople
While NEXT Architecture’s brief was to create a modern, cutting-edge facility, at Premier, we wanted something more. We wanted a space that reflected the warmth and welcome that the town presents itself. The result is an environment where refined industrial design meets small-town hospitality.
Inside, matte black walls and wood-accented panels bring contrast and warmth. Expansive windows flood the showroom with natural light, showcasing a rotating display of customer builds and collector cars. Hand poured and polished floors by Artistic Epoxy Flooring reflect light. While a mezzanine-level office overlooks the shop floor, symbolizing transparency and connection.
The waiting area, furnished with sleek, comfortable seating and a glass coffee table, feels more like a modern lounge than your typical auto body shop. Large TV’s bring music and event entertainment and of course there’s plenty of outlets so you can charge your devices if waiting for your service.
After a year and a half of construction, and overcoming early setbacks, our new home was completed under the leadership of C. Tucker Cope and Associates. An unfathomable amount of dirt and concrete, paired with a whole lot of grit, went into making the foundation.
From the structural steel beams to the glass-front showroom, every inch of this space was built to last. A dedicated paint facility now operates from Premier’s original shop, while the new building houses expanded detailing bays, custom build area, collision and parts storage, car lifts, private consultation rooms, and a climate-controlled showroom that doubles as an event space.
Also a special shoutout to Nye Technical Services for securing our space with a top of the line security system, efficient wireless connectivity, media walls, and more.
A Space for the Community: Rent Our Showroom
Premier’s new facility isn’t just for car enthusiasts; it’s also for those who need a space to celebrate. For those who want to rent the showroom for their event, we have an open kitchen complete with everything needed to host. Along with bathrooms and the use of the reception area as their own welcome area.
Investing in the Future
This investment goes far beyond business expansion. It represents a long-term commitment to the region’s growth, economy, and workforce. With space for new inventory, an in-house parts department, and expanded customer lounges, our goal is to set a new standard for the automotive experience.
As a result of the new build, we were able to create more jobs and have already expanded our team. Jobs include titles such as collision techs, detailers, and customer service sales staff. This is a place where careers thrive, talent is valued, and craftsmanship is celebrated.
New Services and Sponsorships
The innovation doesn’t stop with the building. As of May 2025, we now offer in-house paint protection film (PPF). Further cementing our claim for being your “one-stop shop for all your automotive needs”.
The team also continues to expand its community presence, from sponsoring Pittsburgh Cars-n-Coffee to showcasing client builds at events like World of Wheels and the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix. Each project, photo shoot, and collaboration, including their latest with Urban Automotive on a 2024 Defender, reinforces our commitment to excellence and innovation.
A Grand Opening Worth Celebrating
We hosted our Grand Opening Celebration on July 12th, complete with food, entertainment, and local Zelienople vendors. The ribbon-cutting ceremony at noon marked the beginning of this next era. One built on loyalty, craftsmanship, and community pride.
Co-owner Eddie Westrick summarizes it best:
“We built this facility to last. For our team, our town, and our customers. It’s more than just a building; it’s a reflection of who we are.”
A New Landmark for Zelienople
From the modern black-and-beige exterior designed by NEXT Architecture to the high-end interior finishes, this new facility redefines what an automotive shop can be. It’s a space that tells a story.
If you haven’t gotten to stop by and tour the new facility, we invite you to do so! We would love to answer any questions you may have, whether it’s about the building or your own ride. From daily commuters to prized possessions, we treat every vehicle like our own no matter the service.
Visit: 412 S Main St. Zelienople, PA 16063
Email Us: sales@premiercustompaint.com
Call: (724) 473-0478
Inquire Online: premiercustompaint.com/contact
Follow on Instagram @premiercustompaint
Thank you NEXT Architecture for bringing our vision to life. We are honored to have had our building chosen as one of AIA Pittsburgh’s Best Designs of 2025.
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