Highlighting some of the top projects completed in the past year and honoring the developers and rehabbers revitalizing St. Louis’ architectural heritage.
The Kingswa Building is the largest, and most prominent, building in the two block Kingshighway Hills commercial district which was developed over a two year period in the mid-1920’s turning S. Kingshighway into a commercial and residential thoroughfare. This building is lavishly embellished in the Spanish revival style and features first floor commercial space and 27 residential units. Much of the original fabric remained intact and very little change to the apartments was made.
The Old Courthouse in St. Louis stands on land donated in 1823 by Auguste Chouteau and Judge John B.C. Lucas. The original courthouse, completed in 1833, was soon replaced by a more ambitious Greek Revival structure designed by Henry Singleton and built in phases between 1839 and 1861. Notable for its cast iron and copper dome—an engineering feat predating the U.S. Capitol dome—it hosted landmark cases like Dred Scott v. Sandford and Virginia Minor v. Happersett. By the early 20th century, the building had fallen into disrepair and was eventually vacated in 1930. It was nearly abandoned before being deeded to the U.S. government in 1937 and formally incorporated into the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial in 1940. Since then, the National Park Service has restored it as a museum and historic site. Recent rehabilitation efforts, led by Trivers and the Gateway Arch Park Foundation, prioritized accessibility, safety, and preservation. Innovative solutions, like a cantilevered ramp and operable windows, minimized damage to historic fabric. A four-pipe system and fire modeling analysis avoided intrusive mechanical systems. With Phase 2 completing in 2025, the courthouse is now more accessible and protected, with new exhibits highlighting its architectural and historic significance.
The Onion House, located at 4148 Connecticut Avenue in St. Louis, was built in 1892 by German immigrant and cabinetmaker Gerhard Ludewig. Constructed atop the old Russell-Parker Coal Mines, the home served as both his personal residence and a showcase for potential clients. Its defining features include two striking onion-shaped domes atop the mansard roof, an ogee-shaped metal roof with finial, and a round tower with a smaller dome—all complemented by intricate siding, decorative shingles, and even two boar head accents. After years of neglect and failed sales, Patrick Kohm discovered the listing in 2014 and was captivated by its architectural charm and attached vacant lot. Despite tenant complications and property restrictions, he pursued the home with determination. Just days after his offer was accepted, Patrick met Kirsten—an interior designer who would soon become both his wife and design partner. Their evolving relationship reshaped the vision for the home, transitioning it from a solo renovation project into a shared endeavor. The couple embraced the challenge of restoring the house, respecting its historic integrity while bringing fresh life to its design. Their work has highlighted the Onion House’s unique charm, ensuring its preservation as a local architectural treasure.
Originally constructed in 1926 in the Flemish Revival style by architects Study & Farrar, the Carondelet YMCA building was a neighborhood landmark designed to complement nearby Blow and Lyon Schools. With its steep crow-stepped gables, ornate Missouri limestone details, and a richly historic context, it quickly became a centerpiece in Carondelet, helping shape local architecture during the 1930s revival period. Prominent civic leader Mattie Johnson funded the project and also developed the nearby 1928 apartment building. Over the decades, the building’s original amenities—including a gymnasium, social rooms, and a swimming pool—fell into disuse, and the structure became underutilized. A major rehabilitation transformed the 34,000-square-foot structure into a vibrant four-story apartment building while honoring its YMCA legacy. Signature spaces like the “Boy’s Social Room” were preserved with restored terrazzo floors, moldings, and historic photographs, now serving as a communal event space. The gym remains an active common area, with catwalks repurposed as gathering and access routes. Former pool and locker areas were converted into bright, spacious apartments while retaining features like original tile and graphic markings. The attic was turned into lofty living spaces with cathedral ceilings, and basement areas—including a former bowling alley—were revitalized with restored windows and new accessibility features. Original staircases, fireplaces, and wood trusses were maintained wherever possible. This thoughtful redesign preserved the building’s architectural significance while breathing new life into a treasured neighborhood institution.
Built in 1926 by architects LaBeaume & Klein, 1528 Locust Street originally served as a YMCA until 2018. The building featured elegant lobbies with marble floors, wood-paneled walls, plaster ceilings, and athletic amenities like two gymnasiums and a tile-clad swimming pool. Over the years, historic features were obscured by renovations, and the upper floors, once small sleeping rooms and later senior housing, were abandoned in the 1990s. In 2018, a $100 million rehabilitation project began to transform the long-shuttered building into a 21c Museum Hotel. The restoration revived signature spaces such as the marble-clad lobby, the billiard room, and the library. A dropped ceiling on the second floor revealed a hidden coffered plaster ceiling, which was meticulously restored, turning the space back into an elegant assembly hall. The gymnasiums were adapted into event spaces, while the original swimming pool was fully restored using custom Rookwood tile. The upper floors were converted into 173 modern guestrooms, and new historically appropriate windows were installed. A new ADA-accessible entrance replaced a large 1980s ramp, restoring the building’s original façade. Contemporary art was integrated throughout, including permanent installations by Nick Cave and Bob Faust, and Fallen Fruit. This ambitious project, completed in 2023 despite pandemic-related delays, was made possible through state and federal historic tax credits.
Originally home to Holy Trinity Catholic School, 1435 Mallinckrodt Street held the distinction of being the longest-operating Catholic school in St. Louis until its closure in 2020. The 36,000-square-foot building has since undergone a remarkable transformation. Through an innovative rehabilitation effort, the structure was repurposed into a state-of-the-art geospatial hub. This adaptive reuse not only preserved the building’s historic legacy but also positioned it as a center for cutting-edge education. It now houses the nation’s first high school program offering accreditation in geospatial intelligence. The project revitalized the former school with updated infrastructure while maintaining its educational roots. Modern systems were installed throughout, and classrooms were reimagined as high-tech learning environments. This pioneering reuse project reflects a growing demand for STEM-focused education spaces in North St. Louis. It serves as a catalyst for neighborhood reinvestment and future workforce development. The successful conversion of this historic school building highlights how thoughtful rehabilitation can merge tradition with innovation.
Originally opened in 1873, the No. 7 Firehouse served the Lafayette Square neighborhood until a tornado destroyed it in 1896. That same year, a new structure was built on the site, and it remained an active firehouse until 1975. In 1979, a local resident purchased the decommissioned building from the City of St. Louis, converting it into a private residence that also functioned over time as a photo studio, production space, and even sailboat storage. In 2022, City Sons acquired the property and began an extensive rehabilitation project. Although the building’s structure remained sound, it required a full overhaul of systems and finishes to restore its functionality and beauty. The renovation was carefully planned for 12 months before construction even began. The project maintained the firehouse’s historic integrity while reimagining the space for modern residential living. Now fully restored, the approximately 7,000-square-foot structure is a stunning single-family home once again contributing to the vibrancy of Lafayette Square.
Built before 1909, 4256 Manchester Avenue has housed a variety of small businesses over the decades, from grocery and dry goods stores to women’s clothing retailers like the Hollywood Shop and Bradlee Shops. The building also included an upstairs apartment that saw a long list of tenants through the early- to mid-20th century. For over 40 years prior to its rehabilitation, the building was used as a storage site by a refrigeration contractor and had been stripped of all interior finishes and systems. In 2020, Mangrove Development began a major rehabilitation of the deteriorated structure, working with design and preservation experts to secure historic tax credits. Structural challenges included collapsed roof joists, missing parapets, and a gutted interior, all of which required extensive rebuilding. The team restored key architectural elements such as the stepped parapet, storefront system, and tin ceilings, using salvaged materials and historic references. A new two-story rear porch was constructed, and modern systems were installed throughout. The first floor was transformed into the Eric Outlaw Business Center—a tribute to a beloved local entrepreneur—supporting minority female entrepreneurs with retail and training space. The second floor was converted into a thoughtfully designed two-bedroom apartment. This rehabilitation project not only preserved a significant piece of Grove history but also created a vibrant, community-centered space in a once-vacant building.
The Excelsior Lofts building was originally constructed after a fire destroyed a laundry facility on N. Grand, prompting a merger between the Excelsior Laundry Co. and the Leader Laundry Co. The new facility, located on Texas Avenue, became a major employer in early 20th-century St. Louis. The building also holds historical significance related to the FBI investigation into Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination, as Excelsior-Leader staff helped trace laundry marks tied to suspect James Earl Ray. After the laundry business closed, the building was primarily used as warehouse space by small businesses. In 2019, 2311 Texas, LLC acquired the deteriorated 41,000 sq. ft. structure and undertook a full rehabilitation using state and federal historic tax credits. The transformation included reopening and replacing infilled windows with historically accurate industrial-style metal windows and restoring original loading dock doors. Inside, historic features like exposed masonry, mushroom columns, and concrete floors were preserved to maintain the building’s industrial character. Apartment units were designed with lower room heights to showcase the building’s vertical volume. The project resulted in 24 unique apartments and contributed to the revitalization of the Fox Park neighborhood. The Excelsior Lofts now offer distinctive housing while preserving a meaningful piece of the city’s industrial and social history.
Built in 1907, the Euclid East Building at 4740-48 McPherson and 386-98 Euclid has long been a cornerstone of the Central West End, famously housing Bissinger’s Chocolate from 1927 to 2008 and beloved local businesses like Duff’s and Kopperman’s during the neighborhood’s 1970s revitalization. A devastating fire caused extensive smoke, water, and structural damage, requiring full roof removal, demolition of interiors, and rebuilding of severely compromised masonry and floor systems. As work progressed, additional damage was uncovered, including rotted joists beneath layered flooring, prompting full replacement with a new steel-supported floor. The decorative terra cotta bays were at risk of collapse, necessitating reinforcement and replication of original fluted panels. Historic character was carefully restored throughout, with replica wood windows replacing 1980s aluminum, and storefronts rebuilt with new transom glass and pressed glass panels. Period-appropriate stair entries and transoms were reintroduced, restoring light and charm to residential entrances. Second-floor units were redesigned with soaring 14-foot ceilings and hardwood floors, creating elegant, airy living spaces. Retail bays were renovated with new hardwood floors and tin ceilings to match original details. After six months of planning and 20 months of construction, the building reopened in December 2024 with 12 residential units and seven retail bays. The restoration honors the structure’s rich legacy while breathing new life into the Central West End.
Located in the Compton Hill Historic District of Tower Grove East, the home at 3543 Victor Street had sat vacant for over 20 years before being rescued through legal action under the Abandoned Housing Act by DeSales Community Development and Legal Services of Eastern Missouri. In 2023, the property was transferred to DeSales, which selected Bluestar Holdings, LLC as the developer. General Contractor Sheila Vaughn and her team undertook a full renovation, restoring the home’s historic beauty while making it livable for modern residents. The house had suffered extensive water damage due to a massive roof hole, but the hardwood floors were carefully repaired and original wood trim and doors preserved. Where necessary, new trim was milled to match the original detailing. Two large historic garages at the rear of the property were also restored after clearing invasive weed trees. Interior updates included adding a second full bathroom and laundry on the second floor, and opening the kitchen to the dining room to create a more functional living space. These changes were sensitively integrated to retain the home’s historic character. Upon completion, the home was sold to new owner-occupants, reactivating the property as part of the Tower Grove East neighborhood. The project stands as a successful example of historic preservation combined with thoughtful modernization.
Located at 3203 Olive Street, the Paramount Exchange Building was originally part of the Paramount Famous Lasky Corporation and played a key role in St. Louis’s “Movie Studio Row” during the 1930s. Situated near the former Mill Creek Valley neighborhood, it is one of the few remaining structures that served a community erased by urban renewal. The building stands as a rare architectural reminder of Midtown’s cinematic and cultural history, alongside landmarks like Powell Hall and the Fox Theater. Vacant since 2000, the building has now been transformed into the Center of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) for Harris-Stowe State University. This adaptive reuse project not only preserves a significant historic structure but also reinvents it with a forward-thinking mission. As part of Harris-Stowe’s School of Business, the CIE is dedicated to expanding opportunities, promoting research, and empowering students. It serves as a hub for innovation, inclusion, and community development. The revitalization honors the building’s legacy while aligning with modern needs, making it a powerful symbol of resilience and potential. Through its restoration and new purpose, the Paramount Exchange continues to contribute meaningfully to the cultural and educational landscape of St. Louis.
Originally built for the Tate Motor Car Company, a Dodge distributor, the Tate Building is a three-story brick warehouse constructed with minimal ornamentation but rich in historic detail. Located at 3041 Locust in Midtown Alley—St. Louis’s Historic Automobile District—the building features restored elements like its canted, recessed entryway, terra cotta cornice with decorative shields, and a lion’s head block below the stepped parapet. The upper-story windows and bays, including soldier course brick lintels and replica metal warehouse windows, have also been meticulously restored. ONYX DCI (formerly Renaissance Development) recently completed the building’s rehabilitation, marking its 76th project in the district. Now branded simply as “Tate,” the structure has been repurposed as a mixed-use development, featuring two commercial spaces on the ground floor. One space now houses Falk Built St. Louis, a woman-owned interior construction company, while the second is slated for retail. The upper floors offer high-end rental units—ONYX’s most upscale residential offering in the area to date. The success of the Tate Building has spurred Midtown Alley’s first new construction project, the Tate Annex, directly behind it. This addition includes 11 residential condos, ground-floor retail, and indoor parking. Together, these projects contribute to the revitalization and dynamic growth of the neighborhood.