Photo by Christina Kling-Garrett
LN
PUBLISHER
Ian Caso
EDITORIAL
MANAGING EDITOR
Ashley Klein > aklein@laduenews.com
DIGITA l EDITOR & STAFF WRITER
Amanda Dahl > adahl@laduenews.com
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Emily Standlee > estandlee@laduenews.com
CONTRIB u TING WRITERS
Bethany Christo, Drew Gieseke, Lauren Leady,
Connie Mitchell, Brittany Nay, Pat Raven, Charlotte Renner, Nancy Robinson, Mabel Suen
SALES
VICE PRESIDENT OF SA l ES
Kevin Hart > khart@stlpostmedia.com
SENIOR MEDIA STRATEGIST
Katie Ray > kray@laduenews.com
MEDIA STRATEGIST
Michelle Brown > mbrown@laduenews.com
SPECIA l PROJECTS MANAGER
Maggie Peters > mpeters@laduenews.com
C l ASSIFIED ACCO u NT MANAGER
Lisa Taylor > ltaylor@lee.net
ART
ART DIRECTOR
Laura De Vlieger > ldevlieger@laduenews.com
ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR
Christopher Oth > coth@laduenews.com
CONTRIB u TING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Diane Anderson, James Anderson
AD D ITI ON ALARE A LISTINGS
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1. 7400BuckinghamDrive • Clayton NEWLISTING! Welcometothisbeautiful,substantialbrickhomenestled intheMoorlands.Situatedonacorner,thehomehasagreat-sizedlot,a fullyfencedrearyard,anattachedgarage,asportscourt,andexcellent patios.Enjoytheupdatedkitchen,stylishfamilyanddiningrooms,andmain floorlaundry.Thefinishedlowerlevelhasarecreationspaceandagreat office.Thoughtfulimprovementsthroughoutandafantasticlocationmake thishomeararefindthat’sreadyforimmediateenjoyment. $1,149,000
2. 6912WashingtonAvenue • UniversityCity NEWLISTING! ThisbeautifullyupdatedUniversityCityhomeoffersthe perfectblendofspace,comfort,andflexibility.Thespaciousrearadditionis theheartofthehome,offeringalargefamilyroomthatseamlesslyconnects tothekitchen,casualdiningarea,andscreenedporchwithpicturesque viewsofthebackyard.Thefinishedlowerleveladdsincredibleversatility withafourthbedroom,fullbathroom,andfamilyroom. $975,000
3. 10443ArthurPlace • Frontenac NEWLISTING! Welcometoyournewhomeinthehighlyacclaimed LadueSchoolDistrict!Thisstunningtwo-storygemhasthefresh,crispfeel ofnewconstructionthankstofreshlypaintedwalls,ceilings,andtrimand brand-newcarpetingthroughoutthefirstandsecondfloors.Inside,you’ll lovetheeasyflowofthemainlevel,wheretheinvitinglivingroomopens seamlesslyintothediningareaandadjacentkitchen. $449,900
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7. 225W.ManorDrive•Chesterfield NEWLISTING! Stepintothislovely2-storyhomenestledonatree-lined cul-de-sacstreet.Thegorgeouscabinets,acenterisland,andViking/ Boschappliancesarewhatsetthischef’skitchenapart.Thebreakfastroom Frenchdoorsleadtothedeck,easyforentertaining!Enjoythelargefamily roomwithawallofwindows,&thestackedstone-wallfireplace. $689,900
8. 12914NimesDrive • CreveCoeur
Thisstunninghomehasbeenrenovatedfromtoptobottom,featuring brand-newwoodflooringupstairs,afreshlypaintedinterior&exterior,a brand-newroofandmore.Themainleveloffersanideallayoutforfamily living&entertaining.Theliving&diningroomsshowcaserichwoodflooring andbeautifulwindowsthatfloodthespacewithnaturallight. $589,900
Andreaisexcitedtoannoucethat shehasjoinedLauraMcCarthy RealEstate!IntheSt.Louis realestatemarket,Andrea’spassion is assistingherclientswithoneof the mostmeaningfultransactionsof their lifetime,findingtheirHOME! Forthepast5years,shehashelped countlessSt.Louisnativesandfamilies relocatingtothecitydothatverything. She wasborn&raisedinSt.Louisand has astrongreputationwithinthereal estateandlocalcommunity.Andreastrivestomakean authentic connectionwitheachofherclientsandpersonalizethehome buying/sellingexperiencetomeettheirindividualneeds.She v valuesahighserviceandhightouchapproachtobusinessand knowshowtomanagemultipledealsatoncewhilemakingher clientsfeelliketheyalwayshaveherundividedattention.
Frontenac
TownandCountry
The only thing better than seeing St. Louisans getting creative is seeing them getting creative together, and this issue of LN features some of the metro’s most exciting recent collaborations.
For example, Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis and 4 Hands Brewing Co. connected to emblazon a limited-edition release of City Wide beer with artwork from five local artists, all of whom contributed to the St. Louis Mural Project. Contributing writer Drew Gieseke shares how the collab is helping support the local arts community on p. 16.
A long-standing partnership between the City of St. Louis and Forest Park Forever reached a major milestone with the completion of the Forest Park East Waterways project, which connected the park’s waterways to improve the park for visitors and wildlife alike. Contributor Charlotte Renner gets all the details on p. 52.
Another beloved local institution, the Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis, is currently showcasing results of its partnership with Sumner and Vashon High Schools in the form of its “ArtReach: Confluence” student art exhibition. On p. 50, contributor Lauren Leady shares how the ongoing relationship between CAM and these St. Louis schools offers essential arts education to budding creatives.
Happy reading,
Ashley Klein, Managing Editor
LadueNews.com
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LN ONLINE
St. Louis Shakespeare Festival’s “Romeo & Zooliet” is dazzling audiences at the Saint Louis Zoo now through Aug. 17. Read our review at laduenews.com.
7 Greenbria r Driv e| Ladu e| $5,100,00 0
NE W LISTIN G
ByMaggiePeters
Photoscourtesyofthe
SaintLouisScienceCenter
CAPTURING the Wonder
From exploringthe furthest reaches ofspace toinnovationsthathelpus withourday-to-day lives,science is everywhere, andtheSaint Louis Science Centerishelping keepit accessibleto everyonethroughitsupcoming fundraising event,“Wonder: A QuantumBlast!”
The eventwilltake place onSaturday, Oct. 4,andwillincludedinner, drinks,science demonstrationsandanafterparty. Heldatthe Science Center(5050Oakland Ave.),“Wonder: A QuantumBlast!”servesto connectpeoplewho care abouttheScience Centerandthescience communityatlarge.
“St. Louisis verymucha science city; we’re thehomeinnovationin aviation,biotech,heath science andmore,”explainsMarkSawyier, founderandCEOofemployeeengagement platformBonfyre and chairtothe eventalongside hiswife and fellow entrepreneurLaura Sawyier “ThisorganizationbringsSTEMtoourlocal communityandvisitors. Ifeellike itsitsatthe intersectionof a lotofgreatthingsinourcityand stateand I love tosupportit.”
“Wewanttoembrace thatandcapture the spiritof explorationandcuriosity,” Laura Sawyier adds.“That’ssomethingthat connectsallofusat theendoftheday. Thename‘wonder’drivesthat andencourageshaving a bitof fun.”
TheScienceCenterisn’t just a place– it’sa launchpad forcuriosity , where sciencefeels approachable,hands-on,and roo t edinour community.
–DR.RAYVANDIVER
HonoraryChairsofthe eventincludeAnneand JohnMcDonnellandRisaZwerling Wrightonand Mark Wrighton.Gueststo“Wonder: A Quantum Blast!”willalsohave theopportunityto getto know theScience Center’snew Presidentand CEO, Dr RayVandiver, whotookthehelmofthe organizationin February2025.Withthisposition, Vandiver returnstohis rootsinSt. Louis.Hepoints
tohisinitialpassion forSTEMhappening during a visittotheMcDonnellPlanetarium.
“Afterseeing a starshow atthePlanetarium, I asked for a telescopeandspent countlessnights lookingupand wondering.Thatearlyspark eventuallyledmetostudyphysicsandearn a Ph.D.,” hesays.“Ishare thatstorybecauseit’s exactlythekindofinspiration we hopetoignite everyday. TheScience Centerisn’tjust a place – it’s a launchpad forcuriosity, where science feelsapproachable, hands-on,and rootedinour community.We’re deeplygrateful forthesupport thathelpsus keepthatsparkalive andgrowing –forlearnersofallages.”
Get yourtickets for“Wonder! A QuantumBlast!” andhelpsupporttheScience Center’smissiontoday!
SaintLouis Science Center,5050Oakland Ave., St Louis,314-289-4477, slsc.org
SCANTHECODETOGETYOUR TICKETSFOR“WONDER:A
Feeling Nervous?
By Connie Mitchell
In the great panoply of influencer content and social media sales pitches, “nervous system dysregulation” is becoming increasingly common. Programs and products abound to fix this seemingly pervasive stress-related condition, but is it really a medical problem? Experts say: yes and no.
Although nervous system dysregulation is not listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, “disorders of the autonomic nervous system” is a medical diagnosis often used to cover a number of specific symptoms that could be related to NSD, explains Ruth Shach, a clinical health psychologist and assistant professor of psychiatry and neurobehavioral sciences at Saint Louis University.
Yet before buying into the concept that all your problems are due to NSD, it’s important to understand how the nervous system works. From the brain and spinal cord, peripheral nerves throughout the body populate the somatic nervous system, which relates to senses and voluntary movement, and the autonomic nervous system, which coordinates automatic physical functions. The autonomic nervous system is further divided into sympathetic – fight or flight –and parasympathetic – rest and digest.
“Think about being nervous for a big presentation, and the relief you feel after you did a good job,” Shach says. “That’s your autonomic nervous system winding the arousal dial up to help you perform, making your heart beat faster, making you sweat, feel ‘wired,’ etc., and then back down after the stressful task is done.” But modern life is throwing more than the occasional presentation our way.
For some people, chronic stress and mental health disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder, cause the autonomic nervous system to dial up – and stay there. This dysregulation of the natural cycle of sympathetic and parasympathetic responses is the kind of NSD that causes heightened sensitivity to sensory input, mood swings, insomnia, fatigue, digestive issues and severe anxiety. “It’s like your body is constantly
ready to run a marathon, but there’s no marathon to run,” Shach says. In less common cases, the parasympathetic response stays engaged, causing symptoms like malaise and excessive sleepiness. Stress can cause all the signs of NSD, but not everyone who’s stressed really suffers from NSD. The difference lies in how severely the symptoms affect your ability to function and how long they last. Shach notes that acute stressors, such a stressful event or situation, often cause stress-related symptoms that resolve on their own when the stressor is removed. “But if the person is feeling distressed in a way that’s disproportionate to anything going on in their lives over a significant period of time (months or longer), and they are finding that their functioning is deteriorating – chronically missing deadlines, constantly fighting with other people, trouble unwinding at the end of the day – then it’s likely time to step it up and take care of the problem,” she says.
Clients who seek help with re-regulating and calming the sympathetic nervous system can work with a psychologist to identify techniques that will help calm and reset the stress response. Shach begins with a detailed clinical interview and then works with the client to create a treatment plan that targets the most distressing symptoms. “Often, I work with the patient’s psychiatrist, physician or other members of the care team to make sure that the patient is also optimally managing their symptoms that way,” she says. “When the issue affects other parts of the body like the pituitary or adrenal gland, or the thyroid, especially, physician involvement is important.” Treatments often focus on reducing arousal.
Helpful approaches may include mindfulness practices and breathing techniques, physical exercise and movement to release pent-up energy, and ensuring healthy lifestyle basics are in place with good nutrition, hydration, sleep hygiene and routine exercise.
Finally, remember to carefully vet any online sources promising quick fixes through supplements, apps or other products. “You want to check out the credentials of the sources you’re looking at,” Shach says. “Sometimes, you’ll see a whole host of letters after someone’s name, and it feels fancy, but when you investigate further, those letters don’t really mean anything, and the institution where that person earned those letters isn’t credible. You also want to know what the credentials of the speaker mean – for example, in my field, the difference between a coach, a therapist, a psychologist and a psychiatrist, or in a related field, the difference between a nutritionist and a dietician. Lastly, you want to look at the sources that someone is citing. If they are credible, they should always be citing their sources, especially those written in peer-reviewed scientific journals, versus relying on customer testimonials or pretty before and after pictures. Those tactics are often used to dress up something without substance.”
Saint Louis University School of Medicine, 1402 S. Grand Blvd., St. Louis, 314-977-9870, slu.edu/medicine
Scan this code to learn more about mindfulness practices that can improve mental health.
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Tee To a
By
Carlton Blood wanted to bring a premier golf experience to St. Louis.
A Kirkwood native, Blood came from a finance background but spent his college years working a part-time job at a country club. The experience stuck with him, so he set out to create something of his own.
During this journey, he discovered Five Iron Golf, an indoor golf and entertainment concept with franchise locations in major cities like Chicago, New York City, Boston and Atlanta. After 16 months of construction and development, Blood opened the St. Louis location in Clayton earlier this summer, serving as owner and operator. The reception, he says, has been fantastic.
“I can’t be more elated about where we are,” Blood says. “The community’s been nothing but outrageously supportive, from the business
community to the surrounding neighborhoods. Everybody’s been so welcoming to us.”
At Five Iron, patrons are invited to use stateof-the-art Trackman technology and high-speed cameras to perfect their golf swing, take golf lessons by consulting with onsite experts and even bring the whole family out for virtual reality games and other all-ages fun.
Part of what makes Five Iron stand out from other golf concepts is that no two visits are the same. A trip to Five Iron could include anything from hitting a driving range and gathering data and inputs from your practice to accessing software that can help you work on something the next time you come in.
The mornings are when the real serious golfers make their way to the facility. Blood says his staff sees a lot of their members come in at the 6 or 7 a.m. hour, when people are working on their game, bringing clients in and are more golf-focused. Throughout the day, this atmosphere shifts toward a more relaxed vibe.
“One of our other really high-level things is that
half of our business model is a bar and social atmosphere,” Blood says. “We have a bar, a full food and beverage service menu, and we can do events for corporate outings.”
Five Iron Golf is fully equipped with a full-length shuffleboard table, a pool table and a lounge area that’s prime real estate for congregating. It also offers plenty of games for social events (both golf-related and otherwise), so it’s not unusual to see groups of kids out throwing frisbees and footballs among the golf games going on.
Unlike country clubs and other similar concepts, you don’t have to be a member to play. With that said, memberships come with perks, including free golf onsite during membership hours (6 a.m. to 4 p.m.), food and beverage discounts, lesson discounts, league discounts and more.
Five Iron will launch league play this month, offering non-members a great way to use the facility. But for now, Blood and his staff are simply enjoying where they are and the people they get to serve.
He says: “We’re super excited to be in the community and have people get a lot of benefit out of our facility.”
Five Iron Golf, 8015 Forysth Blvd., Clayton, fiveirongolf.com/locations/st-louis-clayton
Drew Gieseke > Photos courtesy of Five Iron Golf
Cheers to ART
Two years ago, Jay Scherder, the Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis communications and partnerships director, saw a collaboration between a local brewery and a nonprofit. A lover of craft beer, Scherder thought to himself, “Why can’t RAC have its own beer?”
First, he wanted to raise awareness for the organization and the work it does in supporting local artists and arts organizations. Second, he wanted to raise money to help RAC’s mission. So, he contacted 4 Hands Brewing Co. The result is a new limited-edition four-pack of City Wide beer, featuring artist-designed labels, which started hitting store shelves in June. They are available for purchase at 4 Hands taprooms, independent grocers, Dierbergs and Schnucks locations, and local bars and restaurants while supplies last.
“The decision to approach 4 Hands was an easy one,” Scherder says. “I’ve followed them for years, and I knew how dedicated they were to the community. Additionally, I knew they cared deeply about the arts and culture sector in St. Louis. We started meeting and brainstorming. It was a long process because we wanted to get it right.”
Every year, 4 Hands Brewing Co. selects City Wide partners to be
featured on the popular pale ale’s packaging and can design. The brewer donates $1 per case of City Wide sold. Since 2016, 4 Hands has partnered with more than 35 local nonprofits and donated more than $375,000 to their missions. The 2025 partners include not just RAC but also Pedal the Cause, The LaSalle Park Community Association and Mission: St. Louis.
As part of its can design, RAC selected artists from its St. Louis Mural Project to highlight and raise awareness of the unprecedented initiative, which put 28 murals in all 14 wards in St. Louis City in just three months. There are five unique designs in the series. Cans feature artwork from participating artists Brock Seals, Rob Armbrister, Cbabi Bayoc, Neeka and Killer Napkins.
“You will get four of them when you purchase a 4-pack,” 4 Hands Brewing Co. market manager Liz Swyers says. “To get the whole series, you have to buy two!”
Scherder adds: “These cans are more than a novelty. They are helping bring awareness to the amazing artists that call St. Louis home. They are about elevating a sector that is the heart and soul of the region. We couldn’t be happier with the results.”
The decision to approach 4 Hands was an easy one. ... I knew they cared deeply about the arts and culture sector in St. Louis.
– JAy SCHERDER
The limited-edition cans are just the latest effort in RAC’s long history of community investment. In the last 40 years, the commission invested more than $115 million in grants to the arts organizations and artists that make St. Louis a great place to work, live and play.
“We fund the things people know and love,” Scherder says. “The Muny, St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, Contemporary Art Museum, The Repertory Theatre and more.”
“RAC was honored to be selected for the City Wide initiative in 2025,” Scherder says. “While we truly appreciate the funding, we cherish the partnership we’ve created even more. 4 Hands is an incredible organization to work with – respectful, open-minded and generous.”
4 Hands Brewing Co., multiple locations, 4handsbrewery.com
Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis, 314-863-5811, racstl.org
By Drew Gieseke > Photo by Heidi Drexler Photography
STYLE Southwestern
By Nancy Robinson > Photos supplied
A monolithic bed upholstered in solid chocolate brown is the perfect anchor for colorful fabrics inspired by the American Southwest.
Taylor King’s union ottoman is upholstered in a vibrantly colored stripe fabric and supported by wooden legs with a warm, dark finish. The ottoman is 46 inches wide, 32 inches deep and 19 inches high. It is also available with leather upholstery. (shubertdesign.com)
P/K Lifestyles presents Blanket Statement, part of the Road West collection. This 100% cotton fabric is shown in the Tamale colorway. It is a multipurpose print that can be used on upholstery. (greatcoverupdesign.com)
The impressive Harper king-size bed is fully upholstered and features wide channels on a stepped headboard. It is handcrafted in the u.S. (bradleyusa.com)
EXCELLENCEANDEFFICIENCY
ExpertlyCrafted
Weareproudtoofferexpertlycrafted homesusingqualitymaterialsandthe bestmethodsofconstructionthatmodern buildingsciencehastaughtus.Theresults arehomesthatrequirelessmaintenance, havelowerornoutilitybills,andhave muchhealthierindoorairthanthe averagenewhome.
FoundationinCommunication
Webelieveinacollaborativeapproach tohomedesign.Itbeginswithclearly understandingthevisionofourclients. Weaskfortheirideas.Weaskthemto sharepicturesofdesignideastheylove, andweincorporatethoseintothehome design.Thehomeowner’sideasarethe basisofdesign.
201BeverlySt.,SuiteA,Eureka,MO63025
636-938-5333
www.stockellhomes.com
Award-WinningInnovation
Wehavewontwonationalawardsfromthe USDeptofEnergythroughtheirZero EnergyReadyHomesprogramfor innovationincustomhomebuilding.This awardwasbasedonachievinghigherlevels ofenergyefficiencyandindoorairquality usinginnovativemethodsforboth.Wehave anationalawardwinninglevelofinnovation.
Superior SHADE
By Pat Raven Ph.D.
Ahot summer day in July is a wonderful time to take a tall pole (by way of rake, broom, bamboo rod, etc.) into the garden and pretend it’s a shade tree. Walk around until you find the spots that need shade, like your driveway, patio or westfacing bay window. At the time of day you want an area to be shaded, hold the pole high and pretend to be the gnomon of a sundial. Adjust the cast shadow until it points to the place where you desire future shade to fall. This will give you a good idea for future tree placement. The height of the selected tree will determine the distance of shadow, but now you know the direction. Look for obstacles like overhead wires, underground utilities and irrigation heads, then plant a flag.
Choosing the right tree for each place can be a fun process. Use your imagination to design the perfect tree for each spot. It’s a given that new trees must be non-invasive (no Callery pears), sturdy and wind resistant (no silver maples) and pest-free (no ash trees due to emerald ash borers). Trees with messy fruits (like hackberries, sweet gums, maples, catalpas, flowering chestnuts and female gingkoes) should not be disqualified from planting; just don’t put them next to the patio or gutters. Fruiting trees provide important food sources for pollinators and other wildlife.
The next set of qualities is up to you and your personal preference. Deciduous trees can provide shade in the summer yet allow filtered
light to reach your windows in the winter, but evergreens provide year-round screening and wind protection. Do you plant only natives or are ornamental cultivars acceptable? Other factors to consider are spring flowering, fall foliage and winter bark interest. Do you want a spreading tree or an upright, narrow one? Variety is nice too. Avoid planting solid rows of the same species (monoculture) as they are difficult to maintain and vulnerable to new pathogens.
Northern catalpa, Kentucky coffee tree,
linden, bur oak, white oak, bald cypress, pond cypress, tulip tree and black gum (tupelo) are some of our best native shade trees. Superior Asian trees include the Japanese scholar tree, Zelkova, dawn redwood, Chinese pistache, lacebark elm and the ever-elegant gingko. On the gingko, be sure to plant only grafted male trees unless you want to contend with very stinky fruits. Europe offers a wide variety of lindens, flowering chestnuts and hybrid plane trees.
Plant breeding for new tree cultivars is a very slow process. New varieties can take years to bring to market but can offer superior characteristics. “HappiDaze” sweet gum still has gumballs, but offers excellent fall foliage. “Red Sunset,” “October Glory” and “Summer Red” maples are highly colored selections. “Valley Forge” and “Princeton” American elms are Dutch elm resistant. “Dura Heat” river birch has been selected to resist heat, drought and disease, but it still offers lovely curling cream bark. “Renaissance Oasis” is a true white birch that offers excellent resistance to the bronze birch borer and tolerates our hot summers. “Sun Valley” maple has no helicopters to clog your gutters and windshield wipers.
Consult the PlantFinder at the Missouri Botanical Garden (mobot.org), the Tree Finder at The Arbor Day Foundation (arborday.org) and the Missouri Extension Service (extension.missouri.edu) to find ideas and answers as you make your plans for fall planting. Enjoy the exploration!
Tulip tree
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DOWNTOWN CLAYTON’S PREMIER LUXURY APARTMENT HOMES
L uxury L uxury
THAT’SONE STEPABOVE
ByMaggiePeters >PhotoscourtesyofClaytononthePark
Luxurylivinggoesbeyondhigh-quality finishesandexpansivesquarefootage;it’s alsoaboutthefeelingsthatemergewhen you’reinthespaceyoucallhome.Thisis thecorebeliefbehindStoneCreekLiving,whois applyingtheirexceptionalresidentialmanagement experiencetoSt.LouisgemClaytononthePark.
“Ourfocusistocreatecommunitiesthatnot onlyofferbeautifuldesignandpremiumamenities, butalsogenuinecareandservice,”explains StoneCreekLivingCo-FounderandPresidentDaniel Mauch.“OurSignatureLivingdivisionbrings thisphilosophytolifethroughboutique-style offerings,conciergeservices,andthoughtfulbrand partnershipexperiencesthatcreateopportunityfor connectionamongourresidents.”
Intheyearssinceitsfounding,StoneCreek Livinghassteadilyexpandedbyidentifyingiconic propertiesandtransformingthemintorefined, hospitality-forwardcommunities.Withtherecent launchofitsSignatureLivingluxuryportfolio, thatvisionisbroughttolifebyelevatingthe residentlivingexperiencethroughextensive conciergeservicesandpersonalizedbrand partnershipexperiences.
LocatedintheheartofdowntownClayton, theluxuryapartmenthomesboastunparalleled viewsthroughfloor-to-ceilingwindowsand fromClayton’sonly360-degreerooftop,offering panoramicvistasofboththecityscapeandShaw Park.Thiscentrallocationprovidesresidentswith walkingaccesstoClayton’sacclaimeddining,retail, andentertainmentvenues,alongwithconvenient proximitytomajoremployerssuchasCentene CorporationandWashingtonUniversity.
InadditiontoClaytononthePark,StoneCreek LivinghasalsowelcomedTwoTwelveClayton intotheirluxuryportfolio,locatedjustupthe street.GivenStoneCreekLiving’sprovensuccess managingseveralotherpropertiesintheMidwest fortheinvestmentgroupbehindtheseClayton properties,partneringonthesenewventureswas anaturaldecision.
“Weimmediatelysawthepotentialtoelevate analreadyexceptionalhigh-endproperty.”Mauch explains.“FromitslocationattheedgeofShaw Parktoitsspaciouslayoutsandsweepingviews, ClaytonontheParkalreadyoffersaone-of-a-kind lifestyle.Itslocationanddesignmakeitaperfect fitforSignatureLiving,andwepartneredwiththe
Withits inclusionwithin ourSignature Livingportfolio, ClaytononthePark ismorethanjusta luxuryapartment community,it’sa destinationforany discerningresident whovaluescomfort andconnection. goalofpositioningitasthepremieraddressin thearea.”
Withitsnewprofessionalmanagement, ClaytonontheParkevolvesintoalifestyledrivenresidence.“Theamenitypackageisamong thebestintheregion,andwe’reimprovingit further.Upgradedwellnessspaces,newresident programming,anddedicatedconciergeservices guaranteeresidentswillenjoyalifestylethat blendsluxurywithconvenience,”addsLisaFuller, VicePresidentofOperations.
Whilethecoreappealofitsunbeatablelocation andelegantinteriorswillendure,StoneCreek Living’sfocusistofurtherenhancetheresident experience,beginningwitharooftopsoireefor currentandprospectiveresidentsonAugust6 from6-8pmtocelebrateitsgrandreopening, accompaniedbylimited-timeleasingoffers.
“WithitsinclusionwithinourSignatureLiving portfolio,ClaytonontheParkismorethanjusta luxuryapartmentcommunity,it’sadestination foranydiscerningresidentwhovaluescomfort andconnection,”Mauchconcludes.“Withthe visionbehindSignatureLiving,we’recreatingan environmentwhereeverydetailisintentional,and everyserviceisdesignedtoelevatetheeveryday. Thisislifestylelivingatitsfinest.”
ClaytonontheParkbyStoneCreekLiving, 8025BonhommeAve.,Clayton,833-567-2511, claytononthepark.com
TOURCLAYTONON
THE PARK TODAY>
–DANIELMAUCH, STONECREEKLIVING PRESIDENT&CO-FOUNDER
ByMaggiePeters
Youwantyourhometobeboth beautifulandfunctional,butwhat aboutyourworkplace?Whether fivedaysaweekoronahybrid schedule,employeesspendmuchoftheir timeattheirplaceofbusiness,andthattime shouldbespentsomewherethatfunctions andaidstheirproductivityandinspiresthem todotheirbestworkeveryday.
That’swhereWorkingSpacescomesin. Foundedin1999,WorkingSpaces’missionis tocreateaworkingenvironmentthatserves yourbusiness’goalsandvalues.Muchmore thanjustacommercialfurnituredealer,its teamhandleseverythingfromofficeand spacedesigntoassistingwithstorageand repairthathelpbusinessesexperience world-classorganization.
“Weaccomplishthisthroughdiligentand consistentcommunicationwhileproviding creativedesignsupporttoourclients,” explainsfounderNancyApel.“Oursuccess isbuiltaroundonecorebelief:Alwaysdo whateverittakestocreatethebestclient experiencepossible.”
Bylisteningtothecompaniesthey partnerwith,learningtheirgoalsandvalues, WorkingSpacesensuresthatanysolution complimentstheirculture.Ontopofthat, asourworldchangessodoesthewaywork placesfunction,andWorkingSpacesprovides clientswithateamofexpertsproviding guidanceforthechallengesahead.
“Weleadinthisarea;providingvaluable contentindustrytrendsandinsights intocomplexworkplacechallengessuch asergonomics,technology,generation differencesandcorporateidentity,”Apelsays.
Overtheyears,WorkingSpaceshasgrown exponentiallyinitsnumberofemployees, salesvolumeandlocations–includingone withintheInteriorDesignCenterofSt. Louis.Employeesstayimmersedinthelatest research,studiesandtrendstokeepahead ofthecurveandguideclientseverystepof theway.
“Wearecompletelyfocusedon providinganorganizationthatsupportsour employee’seffortstodotheirbestwork,” co-founderMarcyHandlansays.“Wewantto supportthempersonallyandprofessionally aswebelievethatintersectioniswhere culturegrows.”
Ontopofawidevarietyofcommercial furniture,WorkingSpaces’offersinclude architecturalsolutionssuchaspartitions betweenworkspacesandglasswallsfor meetingrooms,aswellascreativeservices suchasconsultinganddesign,project managementandspecification.Thecompany alsoprovidesoperationserviceslike assistancewithbudgetingandprocurement, movingordecommissioningexisting products,andrentalandfinancingoptions.
Nomattertheproject’ssizeorscope, WorkingSpacesbelievesthereisno
Oursuccessis b uil t aroundone core belief: Al wa ysdowhat ev er ittakes to cre at e the bestclient e xperience po s sible.
–NANCYAPEL
suchthingastoomuchcommunication. Its’talentedprojectmanagerswillkeep incontactwithclientsfromtheirfirst consultationthroughimplementationto ensurethattheyareonthesamepageand thatanyquestionsareansweredalong theway.
ApelandHandlanareadamantthatall budgetsdeserveagooddesign.“Wehave tremendousrepresentationineachofour markets,”Apelsays.“Weareproudtocall St.Louisourhome.”
Handlanconcludes:“Weloveservingthis cityandlookforwardtowhatisinstorefor usallinthefuture.”
WorkingSpaces,11624PageServiceDrive, St.Louis,314-918-8778,wspaces.com
Design Q&A
WHAT ARE YOUR TIPS FOR CREATING A TIMELESS LOOK?
Picture in your mind the types of elements the have existed in the landscape over the years. What type of material/ plants have stood the test of time. There are trends and products that come and go. Natural stone is one of those materials that will never go out of style.
Owner/Designer Jim Graeler
CHESTERFIELD VALLEY NURSERY
By Maggie Peters
WHAT ARE YOUR TIPS FOR CREATING A TIMELESS LOOK?
I like to layer newer pieces with clean lines or silhouettes, with vintage items or antiques that have stood the test of time and avoid looks that are suddenly popular or overdone. I try to coincide with the home’s architecture to complement the overall design and create a thoughtful, approachable space.
Designer Andrew Ehret KARR BICK
HOW DO YOU APPROACH
DESIGNING SMALL SPACES?
Start by identifying the room’s purpose. Choosing furniture that’s appropriately scaled and using light-colored walls can make the space feel noticeably larger. And don’t skip the mirror - it’s essential for visually expanding the room. No exceptions!
Owner Linda Shubert
SHUBERT DESIGN FURNITURE
Natural stone, like granite or marble, is elegant and heat-resistant, with unique patterns—but it requires sealing and can stain or scratch. Quartz is man-made, durable, nonporous, and low-maintenance, though less heat-tolerant. If you prefer natural beauty and don’t mind upkeep, choose stone; for convenience and consistency, quartz is ideal.
Mosby Building Arts NATURAL STONE OR MAN-MADE COUNTERTOPS FOR A KITCHEN REMODEL?
WHAT ARE YOUR TIPS FOR CREATING A TIMELESS LOOK?
My tips for timeless home design include selecting products with material integrity! Incorporate elements that are both functional and elegant and opt for natural textures and heritage patterns. You will appreciate the enduring nature of well-made objects and the dignified value of handmade.
Interior Designer Sadie Smith STOCKELL CUSTOM HOMES
T1024 N. TAYLOR AVENUE • KIRKWOOD
his reimagined 1928 Tudor-Revival home in Kirkwood’s North Taylor Historic District feature the perfect blend of historic charm and modern luxury. Walkable to downtown Kirkwood and Tillman Elementary, this 3,500 square foot residence features a seamless addition that enhances both space and style.Admire the timeless stucco exterior, with an arched entryway and decorative brickwork that preserves its character. Inside, the gourmet kitchen with custom Amish cabinetry and natural quartzite surfaces serves as a stunning anchor for the home. The main-level primary suite offers a spa-like retreat with a custom tile shower and soaking tub, and personalized closets. A private lower-level entry opens to a flagstone courtyard, and the oversized 2-car garage is tucked away for added privacy. Enjoy dual-zone HVAC, laundry on both levels, two linear gas fireplaces, and a composite deck with access from both floors. With all-new landscaping and a full sprinkler system, this home is truly move-in ready! This four-bedroom, three-bathroom
StepintotimelesseleganceatthisFULLYRENOVATED 1899brickmasterpieceintheheartoftheCentralWest End.Spanningnearly5,000squarefeet,thishome seamlesslyblendshistoriccharmwithluxuriousmodern living.Meticulouscraftsmanshipisevidentintheoriginal millwork,soaring10-footceilings,andhand-selected designerfinishesthroughout.
Thechef’skitchenisatruecenterpiece,featuringcustom cabinetry,premiumappliances,adedicatedbeverage station,andanexpansiveprepspace perfectfor entertaining.Thestunninglayoutseamlesslytransitions intobright,invitinglivingareasthatstrikeanidealbalance betweenfunctionandstyle.
Alavishprimarysuiteoffersaspa-likebathroomwith premiumfixturesandacustom-designedgrandwalk-in closet.Threeadditionalbedrooms,locatedonthesecond andthirdfloors,provideflexibilityforfamily,guests,ora homeoffice.
Stepoutsidetoyourprivatebackyardoasiswherea dedicatedandgateddrivewayleadstoaspacious3-car garage/carriagehouse.LocatedstepsfromForestPark, BJC,WashUMed,Cortexandthevibrantculturalcoreof St.Louis—thisisluxurylivingredefined.
By
The Business of
Beauty
There’s a new face in Kirkwood: Racquel Aesthetics & Wellness recently moved into an 18,000-plus-square-foot space, expanding the medspa’s footprint in St. Louis’ central corridor. We spoke with founder Racquel Frisella about her entrepreneurial pursuits and the community response.
“What drew me to the Kirkwood community was its warmth and strong sense of community,” the aesthetic nurse practitioner says. “It has a small-town charm while still being vibrant and full of life, making it the perfect place to grow Racquel Aesthetics & Wellness.
“We [feel] so supported here, just as we [do] at our Chesterfield location. Both communities share a commitment to health, family and supporting local businesses – values that align closely with who we are.”
The Kirkwood location, which opened in March, features a luxury IV lounge, treatment rooms, advanced laser and esthetic service rooms, a retail boutique where you can shop the in-house line of medical-grade products by RFA Skincare and comfortable lounge spaces.
“At the heart of it,” Frisella says, “this sanctuary is about elevating your experience so that when you leave, you not only love your results but remember how you felt while
you were here: confident, cared for and truly at peace.”
Education is a key component of the medspa’s success. The team stays current on techniques and technology to ensure the providers at Racquel Wellness & Aesthetics are skilled in their roles as nurse practitioners, registered nurses and trained licensed estheticians.
“I take vetting our providers very seriously because your safety is our highest priority,” Frisella says. “We ensure each provider has advanced training in facial anatomy and injection techniques so [that] they understand how delicate and technical these treatments truly are.”
Her methodology, and the foundation on which the business was built, is to take a “less is more” approach with each client, focusing on full facial balancing (versus just adding volume) to maintain a natural, enhanced beauty.
“I believe that enhancing someone’s appearance should never overshadow who they are. Instead, it should bring balance, harmony and a refreshed look that still feels like them,” Frisella says.
She adds: “When you focus on truly uncovering someone’s wants and needs and becoming the solution for them, everything else falls into place. Whether it is formulating a product that solves a skin concern or creating a space where someone feels safe and seen, the goal is always to serve people well.”
Racquel Aesthetics, 11022 Manchester Road, Kirkwood, 314-200-2334; Racquel Aesthetics & Wellness, 17247 Chesterfield Airport Road, Chesterfield, 636-742-1122; racquelaesthetics.com
Amanda Dahl > Photos courtesy of Racquel Aesthetics & Wellness
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Always
ON TREND
By Brittany Nay > Photos by leanna Spiker
Walking into MOD ON TREND is like stepping inside your most stylish friend’s closet.
“It’s upbeat, welcoming and full of energy – the music’s on, the team is friendly, and the vibe is always fun,” says Tania Rakel, co-owner of the local women’s boutique that has grown to five St. Louis metro locations since launching in 2013.
Whether it’s an outfit for a laid-back brunch, night out with the girls or casual wedding, MOD offers a trendy, versatile and affordable selection of women’s clothing, shoes and accessories, with more than 40 fresh styles arriving each week.
MOD’s style is “effortless, trendy and totally wearable,” Rakel says. “Think easy everyday looks that can be dressed up or down. We love mixing laidback basics with statement pieces, bold prints and fun textures. It’s about looking put-together without feeling overdone.”
And the stores’ fashion-forward staff is ready to help shoppers find pieces they can live in, love in and celebrate in, Rakel notes. “Our team is obsessed with styling,” she says. “[We listen] to our clients and help them put together looks that work for their lives.”
Among the shops’ collections, where “each piece is curated with the customer in mind,” find staple denim, cozy knits, playful dresses and edgy tops as well as handbags, jewelry and shoes that complete the look.
“You can revamp your whole wardrobe without breaking your budget,” Rakel says.
Alongside its own MOD ON TREND label, the stores mix in a range of well-known and loved brands. Peruse MINKPINK fashion and Just Black Denim, as well as Sahira jewelry, Quay eyewear and shoes from Steve Madden and Chinese Laundry.
Customers can’t get enough of the stores’ everyday essentials with a
twist, from perfect-fit denim, fun elevated basics and easy maxi dresses to matching sets, Rakel shares: “[Shoppers] love them because they’re pieces they can wear on repeat, but they still feel special.”
A FAMILY AFFAIR
Fashion and retail is in Rakel’s blood.
“My grandparents owned tailor shops and retail stores in Poland, and that love for fashion was passed down through generations,” she says, adding that her mother and MOD co-owner, Marta Gaska, opened her first women’s clothing store, Marta’s Boutique, in 1981, which continues to serve customers in Ellisville today.
Growing up in that environment, Rakel says she was “constantly surrounded by strong women, style and a deep appreciation for what great service can do.”
Opening MOD in 2013 felt like a natural next step for Rakel. “We wanted to build something modern, fresh and approachable, where women – especially college-aged and young professionals – could shop affordable styles while receiving the kind of personalized service that makes shopping fun and empowering,” she explains. “MOD was created to be more than a store – it’s a space where women feel good, look good and build real connections.”
What started as one small shop and a big dream – making fashion fun, accessible and centered around the customer – has expanded to five boutiques in Kirkwood, O’Fallon, St. Charles, Town and Country and West County Mall, as well as an online store. “As our customers grew, so did we,” Rakel says. “We’re not just selling clothes. We’re styling real women for real life.”
MOD ON TREND, multiple locations, modontrend.com
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MAYO KETCHUP
In 2015, chef Mandy Estrella began making a name for herself around town as Plantain Girl, serving up Latin American fare all over the St. Louis area. Coming up on the 10-year anniversary of the brand, Estrella has now merged her two brick-and-mortar businesses into their final form, a concept she set out to create years ago. The streamlined menu in Midtown unites Mayo Ketchup’s Puerto Rican, Cuban and Dominican cuisine with Salsa Rosada’s Venezuelan and Colombian food for a uniquely diverse dining experience. The combined eatery, now called Mayo Ketchup by Plantain Girl, offers plated appetizers, sandwiches and entrées alongside a new cocktail program.
“One thing I like to point out is that our food is not fusion. It is representative of all of those countries independently of each other. Sometimes that gets lost in translation. Our menu features a variety of the most recognizable dishes from each of those countries, and our dishes are meant to be authentic to the countries they’re representing,” says Estrella, who aims to provide a taste of home for many.
best-selling ropa vieja.
Plantain Girl originally kicked off as a pop-up at the Crafty Chameleon and held a residency in the kitchen at Alpha Brewing Company in 2018. Mayo Ketchup’s original Lafayette Square location opened in 2019, followed by Salsa Rosada in 2023. After coming up on the end of a six-year lease at the Lafayette Square restaurant in March, Estrella made the decision to unify her efforts. With everything now under one roof in Midtown, Estrella can focus on getting her food out to the masses from one centralized location patrons can walk to from nearby venues including Chaifetz Arena and the Fabulous Fox Theatre.
Estrella hopes to refocus her energy on fostering the comfortable dining experience she always intended for guests at her restaurant. She views this version as the “new and improved Mayo Ketchup,” where visitors can sit, relax and enjoy the getaway she and her partner, co-owner Bradley Payne, have refined over the past couple of years. Payne decorated the dining areas with whimsical tropical and pop culture art and collectibles to transform it into a colorful little Midtown oasis.
To lend to that sentiment, Estrella developed a cocktail menu that highlights the five different countries being showcased. A new appetizer sampler also offers something from each country represented on the menu, including Venezuelan cachapas, Colombian-style corn-based empanadas, Puerto Rican sorullitos and maduros – all served, of course, with a side of mayo ketchup or salsa rosada (whichever term guests prefer). Patrons of both of the prior concepts can still find plenty of familiar favorites from those menus, including the signature jibarito (fried plantain sandwich) and
New entrées include traditional Dominican fried chicken, which features boneless skin-on chicken thighs marinated in lime juice and garlic overnight, fried to order until crisp with a breading made up of flour, Adobo and Sazon seasonings. Estrella also offers a notso-traditional vegan version of this dish made with oyster mushrooms in a chickpea flour-based batter. Another addition is a Dominican-style New York bodega sandwich: chopped cheese with ground chuck, American cheese, onion, lettuce, tomato, mayo and ketchup on a sandwich roll.
Local family-owned bakery Pan Pa’ Ti still makes fresh bread for the house-made Venezuelan- and Colombian-style hot dogs, and co-owner Maria Barragan also lends a hand in a consulting role, developing recipes and training team members. As a testament to the diversity of dishes on display, Estrella and Barragan work with a staff from no less than seven different countries in the kitchen and do their best to make sure many of their respective culinary cultures are represented. Ever since opening her brick-and-mortar restaurants, Estrella’s businesses have served as community gathering places for Latin-food lovers, and her patrons continually inspire her to keep cooking and creating.
“I started this 10 years ago to see if my love of this food would translate in St. Louis. The whole point of hospitality – why we do this – is to make people happy with food, and it’s been a lot of fun,” Estrella says. “My whole journey this entire time has been researching, testing, adding, learning and just getting this menu to this point. Most of what changed was based on customer requests. We built all of this after the huge demand for all these things, and now it’s all here in this building.”
Mayo Ketchup by Plantain Girl is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Mayo Ketchup, 3135 Olive St., St. Louis, 314-696-2699, plantaingirl.com
Story and photos by Mabel Suen
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Gates of
St. Louis
By Emily Standlee
As remarkable and numerous as the gates of St. Louis are, they might be overlooked in comparison to our city’s grander buildings. The three mentioned here (or their respective neighborhoods) were all damaged by the May 16 EF3 tornado. Here, we examine how they represent important pieces of local history.
KINGSBURY PLACE GATES
This set of gates, though spared by the storm, is situated in a neighborhood which suffered severe damage: Kingsbury Place. The private place neighborhood was declared a City Landmark in 1973. Recognized as one of St. Louis’ many private streets, Kingsbury Place “certainly holds its ground in the finesse of its architecture,” writes Saint Louis Patina creator Chris Naffziger. “What is most interesting is that it shows how styles had already begun to change since the private streets to the east had been built; we see less of the strident Beaux-Arts and more of the Tudor Revival.”
Guarding the sprawling Tudors and Renaissance Revival-style homes with their overhanging eves are the Kingsbury Place Gates, impressive in both size and detail. “Entered from the east through [architects] Barnett, Haynes & Barnett’s flamboyant Beaux Arts gates, the rhythm of Kingsbury Place is established with wide streets, high granitoid curbs and a wide planted center strip,” reads an entry in the neighborhood’s National Register of Historic Places registration form. The gates, made from ornately detailed limestone, stand at Kingsbury and Union. The first house in the neighborhood, #7 Kingsbury Place, went up in 1902.
VANDEVENTER
PLACE GATES
These gates, on the other hand, represent a residential area that no longer exists. “Laid out in 1870, Vandeventer Place became the prime location for the wealthiest St. Louisans to build their mansions,” Nathan Jackson, tour guide and STL History and Architecture author, writes. “Vandeventer Place was not the first private street in St. Louis, but it was the most prestigious of them all
in the late 19th century.”
The street was designed by Julius Pitzman, city planner and eventual Forest Park engineer, who fashioned a paradise for the wealthy – complete with lush greenery, looping roads, fountains and massive yards. But this abundance could not last forever. “By the 1920s, the surrounding area in Midtown along Grand Avenue became home to the theater district, which drew thousands of St. Louisans to the area via streetcars and automobiles [and] noise and smoke [further pushing] the wealthy residents west,” Jackson writes.
At first, only a few mansions were torn down, but in the 1940s and ’50s, Vandeventer Place’s eastern half was leveled and replaced with the VA hospital; its western half became a juvenile detention center. The area’s original boundaries were Bell, Enright, Grand and Vandeventer. And the gates? They’ve since been moved to Forest Park, near the Jewel Box, where they stand as a beautiful, granite-and-iron reminder of inclusivity’s impermanence.
WASHINGTON TERRACE GATES
These gates were also damaged by the tornado – notably their towering, copper-clad spire, which once sat atop the gatehouse. Located at Washington Terrace and Union, Washington Terrace and Kingsbury became a dual historic district in 1983. And like Vandeventer Place, the terrace was designed by Julius Pitzman, this time in 1890.
This structure also functions a clock tower. It was designed by architects George R. Mann and Harvey Ellis, the latter of whom we wrote about for his work on the Compton Hill Water Tower. Their French Norman Clock Tower is a striking example of Norman Revival architecture, often Romanesque buildings and resembling a fortress or castle. “The color of the brick, combined with the rich black stone, creates a harmonious composition just south of Union and Delmar,” writes Naffziger. “Built right around the World’s Fair, when the city was just starting to creep out to where the fair was located, [the homes along Washington Terrace] supposedly housed visiting dignitaries to the fair.”
Photo of Kingsbury Place by Tom Bastin
Image of Vandeventer Place courtesy of the Missouri Historical Society
Photo of Washington Terrace by Jack Boucher
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SAINT lOuIS BAllET
“A Night on Broadway” Gala
The Saint Louis Ballet hosted its annual gala this May at the Royal Sonesta Chase Park Plaza St. Louis hotel, themed “A Night on Broadway.”
Donning elegant attire, guests enjoyed cocktails, conversation and a gourmet dinner while raising funds for the company’s programs.
Taylor Louderman, star of Broadway’s version of “Mean Girls,” served as emcee, welcoming attendees and introducing the live auction, led by Fletcher Lane. The evening also honored Fox Associates – Mary Strauss, Lisa BaudendistelSuntrup and Julie Baudendistel-Noonan – with the Reverence Award for their work restoring the Fabulous Fox Theatre more than 45 years ago. Passion for the arts and proceeds from the event allow Saint Louis Ballet to continue putting on world-class productions, along with community outreach and arts and education programs.
Visit laduenews.com to see more photos from this event >
The Saint Louis Ballet gala is crucial because it enables us to support outreach programs and offer students from Title I schools the chance to witness a live ballet and share a special moment with the dancers. It also allows us to bring performances by our esteemed company to the community and support the vibrant arts scene in St. Louis.
EVENT CHAIRS
Jeff and Sue Papajcik
Sam Zelch, Ted Wight, Ken Jenkins
Bernard and Marjorie Feldman
Story and photos by James Anderson
Karen Spector and Ann Von Allmen
David and Karen Spector, Ann Von Allmen, Jeff Stein
Miran Halen, Mary Strauss, Gen Horiuchi
Taylor louderman, Karen Spector, Ann Von Allmen, Gen Horiuchi Steve Alagna, Elaine Rand
TOWER
GROVE PARK
Flower Power Luncheon
Tower Grove Park hosted its annual Flower Power Luncheon in May at the Piper Palm House, its premier fundraising event. Guests enjoyed a spring luncheon accented by floral centerpieces created by local St. Louis designers.
The featured speaker was Katie Oglesby, founder of Kitchen Garden Design House. Armstrong Teasdale LLP received the Drew N. Bauer Organizational Partner Award in recognition of their support. Co-chairs Judy Dude and Susannah Danforth, along with committee members Bridget Sliney and Tricia Farmer, helped bring the event to life. Debbie Monterrey served as Mistress of Ceremonies. The event raised more than $83,000 to support Tower Grove Park.
Visit laduenews.com to see more photos from this event >
Flower Power is a cherished event that brings together a vibrant community of supporters to celebrate the park, featuring beautiful floral arrangements from local florists, insightful speakers and honoring individuals whose meaningful contributions help keep Tower Grove Park in full bloom. This year’s focus on garden-to-table living highlights the many ways our landscapes, even in your backyard,can inspire a healthier lifestyle.
– Bill Reininger EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Carol Armstrong, Rebekah MurphyBill Reininger, Bob Holmes, Judy Dude, David Bovier
Debbie Monterrey
Richard Nix, Bill Reininger, Joanie Spurgeon, Bill Siedhoff
Judy Dude, Bridget Sliney, Bill Reininger, Tricia Farmer, Susannah Danforth
Judy Dude, Katie Oglesby, Bill Reininger, Susannah Danforth
Katie Oglesby, Jennelle Ellis
Story and photos by Diane Anderson
Livingin he Living in the Details
ESTABLISHEDIN2024,MURPHY
& MOOREDESIGN BRIDGES THEGAPBETWEENARCHITECTUREAND
INTERIORDESIGN TO CREATETIMELESSSPACES.
ByBethanyChristo >PhotosbyPeterLarson,floralsandstylingbyRevel&Hearten
SistersRebekahMurphyandKatherine Mooreandtheirmother,CynthiaMoore, aren’tjustthenamesakesbehindMurphy &MooreDesign.They’reablendof uniqueskillsets–architecturalfluencyand customcabinetryexpertise,soulfulartistryand anintuitivesenseofbalance,andagroundingeye andrefinedtaste–makingupadesignteamwho transformsspacestobebothdeeplyfunctional andartisticallyelevated.
“WhatsetsMurphy&Mooreapartisour abilitytoserveasabridgebetweenarchitect andinteriordesigner,”Murphysays.“While thearchitectfocusesontheoverallbonesand structureofthehomeandtheinteriordesigner curatesthesoftfinishesandfurnishings,we stepintothenuancedmiddleground,expertly designingkitchens,bathrooms,pantries,closets andanyspacewheremillwork,functionand visualharmonyconverge.”
AlthoughtheyofficiallyestablishedMurphy &MooreDesignin2024,thetriohadbeen germinatingtheideathroughoutyearsof partneringinsomecapacity–beitdesigning entirefamilyhomesorofferinginputduringlatenightcallsaboutcasementwindowsandcabinet reveals,Murphyrecalls.Shesaysthetipping pointcameduringaparticulartimeoftransition forher.“Ihadjustwelcomedmysecondchild andwasreflectingdeeplyonthepathaheadasa workingmother,”shesays.“Atthatverymoment, clientdemandsurgedinawaywecouldn’t ignore–dreamprojects,withidealclients,began pouringin.Itfeltliketheuniversewasnudging usforward.”
Thesynergybetweentheirtalentscame naturally.Murphy’sinteriordesignbackground spansdecades,includingaspecializationin customcabinetryasco-founderanddesigner atStoneHallCabinetry(whichcontinuesto operateindependently)andasadesigneratKarr BickKitchen&Bath.Katherine’sbusinessand marketingeducationcomplementshercreative spirittocreateemotionallyresonant,balanced spaces.Cynthiaismomtoeightchildrentotal, andMurphysaysherquiet,nurturingstrengthis foundationaltohowtheyoperate.“Ourmother bringshistoricknowledge,refinedtasteandan abilitytounearthpiecesandideasthataddlayers
ofstoryandmarkeddetailstoaspace,”shesays.
Murphy&Mooreperformsarangeof interiordesignservices,withitshallmarksbeing architecturalcabinetryandspatialrefinement, aswellaslayeredkitchendesignandspace planning.Theyalsoselectmaterials,finishes andlighting;designcustomfurniture,storage solutionsandorganization;andprovide3D visualizationandeco-friendlyoptions–down tothetiniestdetailsindesign.
“Welovetheeleganceofthesmallgesture,” Murphysays.“Designingcustomhardware, sourcingantiquedoorsorintegratingbespoke organizationalsolutions–thesequietertouches arewhatmakeahousefeelauthoredrather thanassembled.”
Murphy&MooreDesignisavailableforsitespecificcollaborationandprivateconsultations byappointmentonly.Murphysaystheirprocess beginswithlistening;theyconsidernotjustthe architecturalcharacterofthehomebutalsothe client’sinnerlife– how they move,gatherand rest.
“Ourspacesareknownforarchitectural cabinetrythatlooksoriginaltothehome,warmbut-refinedcolorpalettesandlayereddetails thatinvitecloserinspectionwithouteverfeeling indulgent,”Murphysays.“It’saquietluxury thatwhispersratherthanshouts.”Forexample,
Whatsets Murphy & Moore apartisour abilityto serveas a bridge betweenarchitect and interiordesigner.
–REBEKAHMURPHY
inarecentproject,theyleanedintotheclient’s Parisian-chicstyle,strongsenseofselfand reverenceforbeautifulthingsintheformal livingroomwithavintageMuranoglasslantern chandelier,inlaidparquetfloors,gildedmirrors, lacqueredcabinetryandamoodyvelvetsofa tuckedagainstachinoiseriescreen.Theprimary bedroom’sjeweltonesandornatefinishesmake wayforthebathroom’srichlayersofdeepbrowncustomcabinetryfeaturingstatement brasshardwareandcircularpulls,toppedwitha creamymarblecounterwithcaramelveining.
“ProjectslikeNorlandremindusthatat itsbest,designisanactofdeeplistening andtranslation,”Murphysays.“Ourroleisto transformaclient’smemories,inspirationsand wayoflifeintoaspacethatnotonlyreflectswho theyarebutalsoelevateshowtheylivedayto day.Whetherwe’redesigningabreakfastnookor abutler’spantry,ourgoalisthesame:tocreate spacesthathonorhistory,elevatedailylivingand endureforgenerations.”
Murphy&MooreDesign,314-873-1154, murphyandmooredesign.com
CONTEMPORARYARTMUSEUM ST.LOUISCOLLABORATES WITHSUMNERANDVASHON HIGHSCHOOLSIN“ARTREACH: CONFLUENCE”EXHIBITION.
ByLaurenLeady
Blendingcreativitywithenvironmentalawarenessand localidentity,“ArtReach:Confluence”invitesviewers toexperiencehowyoungartistsinterprettheworld aroundthemthroughthelensesofwater,community andconnection.OnviewnowthroughAug.10in ContemporaryArtMuseumSt.Louis’education galleries,“ArtReach:Confluence”isacollaboration betweenCAMandtwolocalhighschools,spotlighting studentartistsfromSumnerandVashonHighSchoolsduringthe 2024-2025academicyear.AdmissiontoCAM,includingtheeducation galleries,isfree.
In2017,CAMfirstpartneredwithVashonHighSchooltoprovide studentswithvitalaccesstoartseducation.Buildingontheprogram’s success,themuseumexpandedin2021toincludeSumnerHigh School.ArtReachoffersweeklyartclassesledbyresidentteaching artistswhointroduceyoungartiststonewcreativemediums, includingtheater,dance,music,fashionandvisualarts.Thisprogram offersstudentsanessentialspacetoexploretheircreativity,express themselvesandsharetheirvoices.
“It’sespeciallyimportanttocreatespaceforyoungpeopletoshare theirvoicewhensomanyofthestudentscomefromcommunities thathavelongexperienceddisinvestment,whereschoolsoftendon’t haveaccesstotheresourcestheyneed,”saysMiriamRuiz,exhibition organizerandeducationmanageratCAM.“ThroughArtReach,weare providingstudentsthespacetofeelseenandbethemselves.We’re showingthemtheirideas,creativityandperspectivesarevitaltoour culturallandscape.”
CAMhasbeenexhibitingstudentartworkforadecade,showcasing themuseum’slongstandingcommitmenttoinvestinginyoungartists inthearea.
“ThisyearmarkstenyearssinceCAM’sveryfirststudentart exhibition,”Ruizsays.“Everyclass,everyartisttalkandvisit,every installationofstudentwork–pastandpresent–continuestoaffirm whyartseducationmatters.[Thestudents’]creativitymatters,and ArtworkbySumnerHighSchoolstudentJadaLampkinfromArtReachPartnershipprogram withresidentteachingartistDeeLevang
investingintheirabilitytoexpresstheir creativitymatters.”
Thisyear’sstudentexhibitionisinspiredby CAM’scurrentspringexhibitions,“LikeWater” and“MaketheRiverPresent.”Ledbyresident teachingartistsAdrienneOutlaw,DeeLevang andRodrickWhetsone,studentsexplored conceptstiedtothethemeof“confluence,” drawinginspirationfromthewaterwaysthat shapeanddefineSt.Louis’identity.
Outlaw’scurriculumfocusedonthe confluenceoftheMississippiandMissouri Rivers,emphasizingtheimpactofplastic pollutioncarriedthroughthesewaterways from31states.Usingrepurposedplasticwaste, suchasbags,capsandfabric,Vashonstudents transformeddiscardedmaterialsintointricate worksofartthroughtechniqueslikebraiding, weaving,gluingandfusing.
LevangguidedSumnerstudentsinthe conceptof“flow”asapowerfullensforartistic expression.Inclasses,Levangintroduced themtoliquid-basedandwater-solublemedia, sharingtechniquestohelpthementerastate
offlowinbothartandlife.Usingtoolslikeink droppers,spraybottles,plasticcards,brooms, mopsandsqueegees,studentscreatedpieces thatembracedimperfectionandcelebratedthe unpredictablenatureofcreativity.
Whetstoneexploredthethemeofconfluence throughthelensofgeometry,guidingSumner studentsin examininghow multipleaxes intersecton acoordinateplane Startingwith two-dimensionalgraphicdesign,studentscreated informationalbrochureson arange oftopics, includingsodaandgraffiti. Fromthere, students transitionedtothree-dimensionaldesign, translatingideasinto13cmvirtualmodelsthat couldbebroughttolife using a 3Dprinter
“Thethemeisrootedintheidentityof thiscityandhowithasbeenformedbythe meetingoftheMississippiandMissouriRivers,
ArtworkbySumnerHighSchoolstudentLondynRanchfrom ArtReachPartnershipprogramwithresidentteachingartist RodrickWhetstone
andthatsymbolismrunsdeep,”Ruizsays.“In additiontobeingtechnicallystrong,theworks areemotionallyandconceptuallyprofound. Studentartistsarethinkingcriticallyabout theirenvironmentandrespondinginwaysthat mirrorhowcontemporaryartistsworktoday, contributingmeaningfulperspectivestothe culturalconversation.That’snosmallthing. It’sareminderthatartseducationisn’tjust aboutexposurebutaboutdialogue,agencyand amplifyingvoices.”
Astheexhibitioncontinuesthroughthe summer,CAMhopesthewidercommunitysees thisworknotonlyasstudentartbutalsoasa vitalcreativeconversation,revealingthedepth andpowerofthenextgeneration.
“It’sanopportunitytoshowhowSt.Louis ispartofamuchlargerenvironmentalsystem, andwhatwedohereimpactspeopleand ecosystemsfarbeyondourborders,”Ruizsays. “Butthere’salsosomethinglocalandgrounded inthiswork.Itreflectshowyoungpeopleare alreadyengagingwithbig,complexissueslike climatejusticeandmaterialculture,andthose areconceptstoexplorethroughcreativityand collaboration.Theexhibitionchallengesvisitors tothinkmorecriticallyabouttheirrelationship totheriver,thesystemswe’veinherited,and howartcanhelpusreimaginewhat’spossible.”
ContemporaryArtMuseumSt.Louis,3750 WashingtonBlvd.,St.Louis, 314-535-4660,camstl.org
Waterways forDays
FORESTPARK’SLONG-AWAITED PROJECTMAKESST.LOUIS’FAVORITE GREENSPACEBETTERFORALL.
ByCharlotteRenner >PhotoscourtesyofForestParkForever
AssomeonewhoseofficeislocatedonForestPark grounds,DominikJanskyisnostrangertothepark’s flowingwaterwaysandthefaunathatcallthemhome. Hispersonalfavoritetowatchisthemajesticegret,a long-leggedwhitebirdwithanaffinityforfishing.
“Theydon’tnoticewhenyou’rearound,”Jansky,directorof communicationsandmarketingforForestParkForever,says. “They’rejustdoingtheirthing–fishing,soaring,landingonthe shoreorevenrailingssometimes.Theyseemsograceful.You’llsee themconcentratingwithverycontrolledmovementsonthewater linebeforetheydiveinandgrabafish.”
Luckyforthistalentedfisher,therecentlycompletedForest ParkEastWaterwaysprojectmakesthehabitatbetterforallwho enjoyit–peopleandwildlifealike.
St.LouisanswillgatheratthecascadewaterfallatJeffersonLakefora dedicationandcommunitycelebrationforthefinishedForestParkEast WaterwaysprojectonWednesday,Aug.6,from5:30to7:30p.m.
The Forest ParkEast Waterways project,partofthe Forest ParkMaster PlanledbytheCityofSt. Louisand Forest Park Foreverinthemid-1990s,sought to connectallthepark’s waterways. The result? A circulating water system withgreatlyimproved waterquality, managementandenjoyment.
“Inheavyraintimes,thewhole parkislikeasponge,”Janskysays. “Thewaterwayinparticularhere helpsslowstormwaterrunoffintothe sewersystem....Wealreadyseelotsof differentwildlifespeciesthatlovethe waterway,butthiswillensurethatwe havehealthierwaterqualitymoving throughthesystem.”
Inadditiontoegrets,Jansky’s walks throughthepark revealturtleshidden alongthebanksandherons swooping intocatch theirmeal.Butegretsand heronsaren’ttheonlyaptfishersthat grace theparkgrounds.Jefferson Lake ishometothe country’soldest urbanfishingprogram;theMissouri DepartmentofConservationhasbeen stockingthelake withfishsince the’60s. TheEast Waterways project connectsthe lake tothe TaylorKindleRiver Visitors cannow enjoy theriver extensionvia a newfootbridge, stone weirsandshaded areasperfect forpicnics.Thelake itself was reshapedwith a meadow,rain gardensand a cascade waterfallthat
adds a dashof wondertothebodyof water. Thespace is a fisher’sdream:It’s well-shaded,burstingwithnative plants, andoffers asymphony ofprimefishing spots.Thenew BayerBoardwalkbrings pedestriansdirectly overthe water’s edge. Eachcomponent wasdesignedto connectpeoplewithnature. “Peoplelike to go uptothe water’sedge, andnow thatactivityis evenmore attractive,” Janskysays.“It’s goingtodraw more peopletothe water.”
Youmightbewonderingifthis projectincreasesForestPark’sfloatable watersthatpeoplecanpaddlethrough, butalas,theyaren’tbuiltforthat purpose.Peoplecanpaddleonthe Post-DispatchLakeandEmersonGrand Basin,courtesyofcanoe,kayak,standuppaddleboardandpaddleboatrentals fromBigMuddyAdventures.“Therest isjustforthewildlife,andyoucanfish thoseareas,”Janskysays.
Luckily,youdon’thavetobeonthe watertofeelthemagicofthenewly completedproject.Evenasimplestroll throughthepark’sabundanttrails givesyouopportunitiestofindawe inunexpectedplaces.“Itcreatesnew viewsofthepark,thatsortofpassive experiencewhenyou’rewalkingalong andsuddenlygettingglimpsesofwater ordifferentanglesofthetreecanopy,” Janskysays.“Partofthedesignintent
TornadoImpact
As you’ve probably heard, Forest Park’s groundssustainedsignificant damage fromtheMay 16 tornado.The westernandnorthernsides of the park tookthebrunt of it,and Janskysays the East Waterways projectareawas largely unaffected. He adds:“We’ve been tellingpeople to avoiddamaged areaswhilecleanupisgoingon,andit’s beenniceto point to thisareaof the parkas a spot that, even rightafterthe tornado, wassafeto be[in].”
HowtoHelp
Nowmorethanever,ForestParkForeverreliesonmembers, volunteersandone-timedonationstosupportitsworkwiththeCityof St.Louisandkeeptheparkthriving.Visitforestparkforever.org/tornadorecoverytosignuptovolunteerordonate,orconsiderbecominga ForestParkmembertocontinuallyhelpthepark.
“Membershipsshowyou’reasupporteroftheparkandwhatit meanstotheregion,”Janskysays.“Yougetinvitedtoafewmember eventseachyear,andtherearediscountstodifferentpartnerswithin theparkandsomeotherlittleperks,dependingonthelevelofthe membershipyouhave.”
ofthewholewaterwayistohavethis waterconnectionthatgivesyoulittle glimpsesand‘aha’momentsasyou travelbesideit.…Nomatterwhichpart oftheprojectyouarein,you’llfinda neatlittlenewspaceandawaytoenjoy natureinthemiddleofthecity.”
ForestParkForever, 5595GrandDrive,St.Louis, 314-367-7275,forestparkforever.org
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