Our motto is “Expect the Exceptional,” and exceptional is exactly what you can expect when you visit our new Audi Exchange Kirkwood facility. Our stunning showroom allows you to explore the latest Audi models, so you can find the perfect Audi to fit your lifestyle. Our team of highly trained Audi experts are dedicated to providing you exceptional service, ensuring your experience is tailored to your unique needs and preferences. Come in today and experience the exceptional at Audi Exchange Kirkwood.
LIFESTYLE LETTER
Houses of Style
It wasn’t my idea. Around this time last year, I was having dinner at Mike Duffy’s with Neil Westfall, General Manager of Audi Kirkwood, and Cindy and Joe Roeser, owners of Roeser Home Remodeling. I left the table to say hello to some friends. I returned to find Neil and Cindy discussing the idea of creating a home tour in Kirkwood to benefit the Kirkwood Historical Society. With an incredible amount of leadership and wisdom from Deb Hill-Jablonski, president of the Kirkwood Historical Society, we hosted a home tour. Over 500 tickets were sold.
We are gearing up to do it again this year. Mark your calendars and get your tickets before we sell out.
The Kirkwood Lifestyle Home Tour benefitting the Kirkwood Historical Society is on Saturday, October 12th, from 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm. This year’s tour offers a diverse range of eight homes, from historic to ultra-modern, showcasing every design style in between. Revived, rebuilt, remodeled, renovated, refreshed, and ready for you to view. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore beautiful homes across Kirkwood and the surrounding communities from Roeser Home Remodeling, BenchMark Homes, Trisha McConkey, Just Around the Corner Flooring and Terra Nova Revives.
I’m excited for you to meet our partners who are building and remodeling experts and the nicest people you’ll meet in the home industry. I’m fortunate to be surrounded by amazing business owners who support our community. Get to know all our magazine partners as you explore the homes on the tour. Let them know you look forward to receiving this magazine in your mailbox each month. Their commitment to Kirkwood City Lifestyle magazine makes this home tour possible.
Follow us @KirkwoodCityLifestyle on Instagram and Facebook as we preview each home before the tour with commentary from Audi Exchange - Kirkwood General Manager Neil Westfall.
Purchase tickets online at KirkwoodLifestyleHomeTour.eventbrite.com
The Kirkwood Lifestyle Home Tour is Saturday, October 12 from 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm benefitting the Kirkwood Historical Society.
ARTICLE BY LUCY ROGERS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
HOUSES OF STYLE: KIRKWOOD LIFESTYLE’S HOME TOUR
The Kirkwood Lifestyle Home Tour, now an eagerly anticipated annual event, offers a unique glimpse into some of Kirkwood’s and the surrounding communities’ most beautiful and historic homes. The tour benefits the Kirkwood Historical Society, reflecting a community-wide commitment to preserving the area’s rich heritage. Attendees will enjoy touring meticulously restored residences showcasing a range of architectural charm and historical significance to modern elegance built for generations to come. The event not only highlights the beauty of these homes but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the communities’ history while supporting the invaluable work of the Kirkwood Historical Society in maintaining and promoting local historical landmarks. With the participation of homeowners, Kirkwood Lifestyle magazine’s partners, volunteers, and history enthusiasts, the tour promises to be a memorable day filled with inspiration, education, and community spirit.
AWE-INSPIRING STYLE AND DESIGN
The Kirkwood Lifestyle Home Tour offers visitors an exclusive look at some of the communities’ most stunning and historically significant homes. Each house on the tour is a testament to the neighborhood’s architectural diversity and historical charm, showcasing styles from Victorian to ultra-modern. As you stroll through these homes, each room tells a unique story of how it serves the family living there.
MEET THE BUILDERS: STEWARDS OF HISTORY
One of the highlights of the Kirkwood Lifestyle Home Tour is the opportunity to meet the builders, who happily share their passion for preservation. This year’s lineup features eight homes highlighting a comprehensive look at the craftsmanship, style, and design presented by Roeser Home Remodeling, BenchMark Homes, Just Around The Corner Flooring, and Terra Nova Revives. These individuals are more than just remodelers; they
Historic Kirkwood Home from Terra Nova Revives
are stewards of history, dedicated to maintaining the integrity and beauty of the neighborhoods. Their stories offer invaluable insights into the restoration process, the challenges faced, and the joy of living in this community.
SUPPORTING THE KIRKWOOD HISTORICAL SOCIETY
The Kirkwood Lifestyle Home Tour benefits the Kirkwood Historical Society, which plays a crucial role in preserving our town’s heritage. The Kirkwood Historical Society is committed to maintaining historical sites, promoting awareness, and educating the public about Kirkwood’s rich past. The Society operates the Mudd’s Grove historic house, a local treasure that serves as a museum and headquarters. The Kirkwood Lifestyle Home Tour funds support restoration projects, educational programs, and community events celebrating our town’s history.
A COMMUNITY CELEBRATION
The Kirkwood Lifestyle Home Tour is more than just an event; it’s a community celebration. Participating local businesses and volunteers are a testament to Kirkwood’s strong community spirit.
SAVE THE DATE
This year’s Kirkwood Lifestyle Home Tour takes place on Saturday, October 12th, from 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm. Tickets can be purchased online at KirkwoodLifestyleHomeTour. eventbrite.com
Join us for a day of style and design inspiration, cherished history, and connecting with the community. We look forward to seeing you there!
The Kirkwood Lifestyle 2024 Home Tour is Saturday, October 12, from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. benefitting the Kirkwood Historical Society. Explore a wide variety of beautifully preserved and uniquely styled homes that have been rebuilt, restored, remodeled, renovated, refreshed, and are now ready to be viewed.
Purchase tickets online at KirkwoodLifestyleHomeTour.eventbrite.com
Historic Kirkwood Home completely remodeled
BenchMark designed modern Kirkwood home with a beautiful view of the lake
Remodeled kitchen by Roeser Home Remodeling
Open concept kitchen from BenchMark Homes
Awe-inspiring foyer from Just Around The Corner Flooring
BUILDING A LEGACY
BenchMark Homes founder and president Mark Rasch, crafts custom-homes with his daughter Sydney Rasch.
ARTICLE BY LILLY ANDERSON AND OLIVIA SILVEY
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Have you ever noticed how some new houses in Kirkwood and Des Peres feel uniquely designed for the neighborhood? It’s as if these custom-built homes were designed by someone with an intimate knowledge of the neighborhood’s charm and character. Chances are, it probably was.
Mark Rasch, President of BenchMark Homes
“There’s a fine line between wanting function in a house and wanting the beauty of its appearance.”
Mark Rasch, founder and owner of BenchMark Homes is not just a seasoned home builder; he has lived in the Kirkwood / Des Peres area for over 50 years. Mark and his wife Laura’s story is so quintessentially Kirkwood. They grew up near Kirkwood High School, two streets apart, and have been married for over 37 years. Their connection to Kirkwood is rooted where community ties run deep.
For the past 33 years, Mark has been crafting custom residences that capture the very essence of Kirkwood’s charm. “There are probably only one or two other builders in the Kirkwood area that have been building custom homes as long as we have,” said Mark. “We don’t build cookie-cutter homes. Whether it’s a custom home or one of our designs, our experience with building many different styles of houses ensures the home of your dreams blends perfectly into the neighborhood of your choice. We pride ourselves
as experts at finding remarkable home sites to build in Kirkwood and the surrounding communities.”
BenchMark Homes was created from Mark and Laura’s journey to build their dream home while Mark worked in his father’s auto repair shop, Rasch Mobil. “When my father retired, my brother and I took over the business,” Mark recalls. “But as I began working in construction, my brother suggested we expand our partnership and venture into building custom homes.” BenchMark has since transformed into an award-winning builder specializing in highend custom homes, ranging from $1 to $2.5 million, with around ten new builds annually.
Today, BenchMark Homes is one of Kirkwood’s most respected custom home builders. Adding a fresh dimension to this legacy is Sydney Rasch, Mark’s daughter and the Assistant Director of Operations at BenchMark. With a degree in Business
Administration from the University of Missouri and a keen interest in construction from a young age, Sydney is poised to carry forward the family tradition. “I grew up in the garage with my dad, learning to fix and build things. I remember wearing old white t-shirts and getting dirty helping with anything I could,” Sydney shares with a smile. Sydney started at BenchMark full-time after graduation in the spring of 2022. She had taken construction courses in college, but her on-thejob training at BenchMark included every aspect of the job, from marketing and sales to pulling large trailers, operating and driving Bobcats and excavators, and scrapping out houses. Mark and Sydney believe her wide range of experience paves the way for her to take over the business when he chooses to retire.
“I didn’t have any sons, so I wasn’t sure if the BenchMark legacy would continue within the family,” Mark admits. “When Sydney expressed her desire to join and possibly take over the business, it felt like a perfect fit for the business and our homeowners.”
While BenchMark is, first and foremost, a custom home builder and construction company, they also cater to extensive remodels and additions, focusing on function and home details such as storage, lighting, and beautiful kitchens. Sydney talked about the trend for clients to value practicality and aesthetics. “There’s a fine line between wanting function in a house and wanting the beauty of its appearance,” she said. “It’s an interesting balance. We always look to maximize function. There is a lot we can hide behind walls.”
“We don’t build cookie-cutter homes. Whether it’s a custom home or one of our designs, our experience with building many different styles of houses ensures that your home blends beautifully into your neighborhood.”
The Rasch family’s commitment to their clients goes beyond construction. They care deeply about the outcome of their projects and the construction process itself. Both Mark and Sydney emphasized the importance of trust and communication between the builder and clients. “Building a home is a long process. It’s a relationship,” said Mark. “If the client trusts you as a builder, the process will move much smoother and be more efficient.” Sydney added, “If you can’t trust your builder, you
should not build with them. There has to be constant communication because you’ll have your highs and lows, just like any relationship.”
The team at BenchMark Homes works hard throughout the process to maintain trusting relationships with clients, aided by the Rasch family’s long history in Kirkwood. The father-daughter duo’s knowledge of the community ensures that BenchMark will continue to build beautiful, family-friendly, functional homes that fit right into the neighborhood.
Sydney Rasch, TJ Carroll, Karen Sloan, Mark Rasch, Dina Merry, Jeff Brinkmann
What’s You r Style?
Looking for a home that matches your style— traditional, modern, historic, or new construction? As a real estate expert, I’m dedicated to finding the perfect house for you.
If you're selling, my design background ensures your home shines in today’s market. I strive to make the buying and selling process smooth and stress-free.
As a proud Glendale resident, I’m eager to be your trusted partner in your real estate journey. Whether you're ready to make a move now or in the future, I’m here to help you create the perfect plan for you and your family. Let's talk today and make your real estate dreams a reality!
LIVE IN STYLE LONGER
ARTICLE BY CINDY ROESER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROESER HOME REMODELING
EXPERT ADVICE FROM CINDY ROESER, CERTIFIED AGING-INPLACE SPECIALIST FROM THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF HOME BUILDERS.
Aging in place refers to the ability to live independently, comfortably, and safely in your home as you age. What once was a very institutional look for people with physical challenges is now a design style perfect for all ages. As award-winning Certified Aging-In-Place Specialists (CAPS), Roeser Home Remodeling has created a four-page checklist of home modifications to consider that reduce the risk of falls, support mobility challenges, and enhance the overall quality of life at home - for not only seniors but the whole family. Here are a few things to start thinking about now. First-floor living, including a full bathroom and laundry room. Zero-step entries eliminate steps and thresholds. Doorways and hallways at least 36” wide. Good lighting is key. Lowered windows or taller windows with lowered sills, sun tunnels, and skylights increase natural light.
Slip-resistant flooring and smooth and low-pile carpet are easier to walk on, and lever-style door handles and faucets are easier to grip.
Reinforced interior wall support and provision for adjustable and/or varied counter heights. Removable base cabinets and upper cabinets are 3” lower than conventional height. Base cabinets with roll-out trays, drawers, lazy Susans, and
pull-down shelving add easy access to kitchen items. Contrasting edge boarders at countertops for visibility of where the countertop starts provides a nice feature in the bathroom and kitchen.
To prepare food safely, side swing or wall ovens reduce the risk of injury. Place microwave ovens at counter height or purchase a microwave drawer. Electric cooktops with level burners, front controls,
and downdraft features to pull heat away from the user are also excellent. Induction cooktops have several of our favorite features for aging in place and are also safe for young children.
Appliances should have easy-to-read controls. Washing machines and dryers raised 12”-15” above the floor, along with front-loading capacity, help with all laundry needs. Consider raised dishwashers
with push-button controls. Comfortheight toilets with an electrical outlet behind the toilet for a bidet, seating around the front of the bathtub, and grab bars in the shower offer safety as well as elegant style.
Visit roeserconstruction.com for more information.
ARTICLE
AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY LILLY ANDERSON & OLIVIA SILVEY
FOUR GENERATIONS OF FAMILY HAVE CREATED A LASTING LEGACY ON ST. LOUIS’ NAME IN THE SHOE GAME.
FAMILY FOOTSTEPS
Scott Waldman, Mark Waldman, Patty Baker, Sam Baker
In 1951, one family changed St. Louis’ shoe industry forever. Wally and Joan Waldman, along with her father, Morris Goldman, founded Laurie’s Shoes, known for its unparalleled customer service and lasting impact on its customers. Laurie’s is also known
the Birkenstock & More store in Creve Coeur, which is the only Birkenstock Concept in St. Louis!
The family business set high expectations of operation and care from the very beginning of all Laurie’s Shoes companies. “Laurie’s is known for our
“WE TRAVEL WORLDWIDE TO RESEARCH NEW SHOE BRANDS AND STYLE TRENDS.”
for its extensive selection of the most popular brands of men’s, women’s, and children’s shoes. Customers continue returning to Laurie’s – throughout four generations of family – because the team at Laurie’s Shoes makes everyone feel like family.
Laurie’s Shoes is owned by the three children of Wally and Joan: Scott Waldman, Patty Baker, and Mark Waldman, with Mark serving as President of the charming store located in Glendale at 9916
Manchester Road. Mark joined his family’s business in the early 70s.
“Later, my sister and brother joined the business,” Mark said. Patty initially managed the sales floor and helped with merchandising then became the President of Shoe Roads Productions: a health care business that is a division of Laurie’s. Scott, the Vice President, has been the children’s buyer for years as well as the backbone of the operational aspect of Laurie’s. The family also operates
customer service. We carry one of the largest selections in fashion, comfort, sizes, and widths for your entire family. And, we expertly fit you in the correct size, width, and differing styles,” said Mark. “We still uphold those standards today, but it comes from those roots that started in the 50s.”
Laurie’s Shoes has maintained the same caring values since its opening, but the store’s merchandising has expanded incredibly, making the store an incredibly unique experience. The buying team looks for inspiration worldwide when identifying hot trends, styles, brands, and footwear that has fresh and secure technology. “Our biggest vendors come from the USA, France, Italy, Portugal, and Asia,” said Mark. “We also go to New York, Atlanta, California, and Las Vegas to research new brands and style trends.”
Laurie’s has also expanded their large selection of orthotics and arch support options. Their educated staff
include pedorthists who are taught specifically about the relationship between appropriate arch supports, footwear, and your feet. “We handle many clients who simply look for relief from pain in their feet – we provide both comfort and style in our footwear selection,” Mark said. For decades, parents have trusted Laurie’s Shoes to find the perfect fit for toddlers and kids – not to mention, children love the store airplane! Beyond kid’s shoes, Laurie’s has an astounding collection of men’s and women’s sport and dress shoes. The shop is filled with the most popular brands like Hoka, On, Brooks, Birkenstock, Uggs, New Balance, Mephisto, Ecco, and other beloved brands. Why shop anywhere else when you can shop locally?
Beyond offering high-quality international and national shoe brands in-store, Laurie’s Shoes has a prominent presence in local hospital support and other charitable works. “We continue to build on our reputation for servicing and helping people. We get patients from Cardinal Glennon and Barnes Hospital that come in because they know how well we do with fitting footwear,” said Mark. “Many times, we see children who have never walked before. Our fantastic St. Louis hospitals work miracles in helping these children walk. The kids then come in and we custom-fit stylish athletic shoes for each
Mark inspecting the merchandise
Mark enjoying the airplane slide
“LAURIE’S IS KNOWN FOR OUR UNPARALLELED CUSTOMER SERVICE.”
child. Their eyes get really big and they walk across the floor to their parents, sometimes for the very first time in their lives. It’s just a wonderful moment that we get to see.”
With over 73 years serving St. Louis, Laurie’s Shoes continues to be excited about its future. Most recently, Patty’s son, Sam Baker, and Scott’s son, Jacob Waldman, have established their roles in the company, solidifying the fourth generation of Laurie’s Shoes. “Sam runs the store as a manager, buyer, and customer service expert. He graduated from Disney University – Sam is the face of the future. Jacob, with an MBA, is involved with the online web business and promises to take the web to a new level with an excellent future,” said Mark. “We truly value the fourth-generation aspect and family involvement. Fourth-generation family businesses are rare.”
So, step into Laurie’s Shoes to see why it is synonymous with the St. Louis shoe market; step out feeling like you are part of the family.
Laurie’s memorabilia throughout the years
back to SCHOOL
JOHN PITMAN ELEMENTARY ALL SCHOOL REUNION, SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19TH, 3:00 - 8:00PM AT SUNSET 44
ARTICLE BY PITMAN ALL SCHOOL REUNION COMMITTEE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVE CLARK
It’s been 50 years since the last bell rang at the school, but former students remember it like it was yesterday. Today, only the flagpole remains in honor of the beloved elementary school built in 1914. The building was demolished in 1978, but for the students who attended Pitman Elementary, the bond they share is stronger than ever. All classmates who attended, whether only for kindergarten or all through 6th grade, are cordially invited to the John Pitman Elementary All School Reunion on Saturday, October 19th, from 3:00pm - 8:00pm at Sunset 44 in Kirkwood.
The Pitman Elementary School Reunion Committee: (Dave Clark – Chairman, Mike
Gibbons, Athalia Howell, Wallace Ward, Tacy Flynn, Kathy Harris, Dave Moon) along with Dave Jones reminisces about the beloved elementary school.
There’s something about the group of people who went to Pitman that is unlike any other school in the Kirkwood School District. Whenever somebody says, ‘I grew up in Kirkwood,’ you’ll ask where they went to grade school. If they say Pitman, there is an automatic bond, and the stories start pouring out. We have this unique connection. Looking back from 1954 on, Pitman was a testament to the value of public education because it enriched everybody’s lives, not only the kids. We cannot imagine an economically and racially more diverse
and inclusive school than Pitman. There was a closeness between the parents, the neighborhoods, the churches - even the businesses near the school.
Pitman was located in Downtown Kirkwood, so we all grew up with the school as our home base. The businesses along Jefferson, Adams, and Kirkwood Road all knew us. In fact, the business owners would let us decorate the store windows for Halloween.
The events held at Pitman were incredible. There were all sorts of games, festivities, holiday events, cakewalks, talent shows, and spaghetti dinners.
During the war, the 5th and 6th graders knitted little squares that were collected
Pitman All-School Reunion Committee
to make blankets for the soldiers. The playground was dirt, and there was no adult supervision at recess. When it was time to go inside, we would line up by class and march in line upstairs to our room. Everybody has great stories about their teachers. We all have Mrs. Gravell stories. The John Pitman Reunion 2024 Facebook page is filled with comments, photos and stories that are very entertaining and funny. We were thrilled at how many teachers attended the previous John Pitman Elementary All-School reunion.
Our last reunion, in 2017, was incredible. Everyone reconnected with old friends and told stories from the past. They talked to the brothers and sisters of their friends and loved ones. It was an amazing event, and everyone talked about getting back together for another reunion. Mark your calendar for Saturday, October 19th, at Sunset 44. All past Pitman students are welcome to relive those cherished memories, and none of us are getting any younger.
Check out their John Pitman Reunion 2024 Facebook page for more information.
Macarons, Tarts & Cakes, Éclairs, Napoleon, Croissants, Lavazza Euro Coffees, Organic French Wine, Iced Drinks, Gelato, Fine Chocolates, & More
Old Webster Groves 111 W Lockwood Ave 314-395-6094
LeMacaron1StLouis@gmail.com M-Sat 9am-10pm Sun 9am-9pm lemacaronstlouis
KIRKWOOD PERFORMING ARTS CENTER OFFERS AROUND THE CLOCK ARTISTIC CULTURE.
Fusing People and the Arts
ARTICLE BY LILY BUEHLER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIRKWOOD PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
While the specifics may vary, the rhythm of the KPAC remains constant.
Nestled in the heart of the city, the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center (KPAC) stands as a beacon of creativity and culture. It is THE PLACE for LIVE entertainment. Our thriving arts community brings esteemed regional arts organizations to curate exceptional experiences.
A day in the life of the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center offers opportunities for entertainment, culture, and creative expression, not only in the evenings but around the clock and throughout the facility. The Ross Family Theatre, the Strauss Black Box Theatre, the Kent Family Lobby, and our exquisite upstairs event space keep the KPAC calendar filled with different art forms. KPAC is one building with many moving parts… much like the inside of a clock.
10:00 AM
The KPAC Box Office and the Kirkwood Arts Commission’s Gallery open at 10:00am on weekdays, bringing the building to life. The Gallery program presents four seasonal exhibitions each year featuring new art perspectives from local artists. KPAC visitors are greeted by the Kirkwood Arts Commission’s newest art sculpture outside the East Monroe entrance. After perusing the art, you can make your entertainment plans by stopping by the Box Office to pick up your tickets to one of our many exciting performances.
10:30 AM
Join us for our Coffee Concerts every other Tuesday. Experience the magic of the Great American Songbook as crowds bustle in to start their morning with fresh coffee, donuts (provided by Kirkwood Dunkin’), and exceptional live entertainment. Guests enjoy coffee and classic hits performed by one of St. Louis’ finest musicians. What a way to start your day.
2:00 PM
The afternoons are lively with matinees that draw large, energetic crowds. September afternoons in the Ross Family Theatre will feature Ragtime: The Musical from STAGES St. Louis, telling the poignant story of three families chasing the American dream in New York City. Meanwhile, the Strauss Black Box Theatre hosts the local improv comedy troupe, Extraneous Commas. They’re sure to have you laughing with their hilarious improv comedy game show, Roll the Dice. Whether a weekday or a weekend, matinees offer a delightful break from everyday life.
5:00 PM
A new educational opportunity will be added to the KPAC calendar this fall. Aspiring young artists can try their hand at being an artist on the KPAC stage by auditioning for a production of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. KPAC is holding auditions on September 15th, with rehearsals beginning at the end of October.
7:00 PM
The day at KPAC is far from over. The evenings are when KPAC seems to almost come alive, whether you’re looking at an incredible set design in The Ross Family Theatre or experiencing the intimate nightclub setting of the Strauss Black Box Theatre. The Strauss Studio Series has a roster that reads like a who’s who in local professional music. STAGES St. Louis brings in talent from all over the country for RAGTIME. Perfect for a date night, family night, or friends night, musical theater and concerts at KPAC provide Downtown Kirkwood with its own little version of New York City nightlife.
While the specifics may vary, the rhythm of the KPAC remains constant – a continuum of creativity, collaboration, and commitment.
GO with Lorilee SHOPPING
Lorilee Cummings is a Keller Williams Luxury Home Realtor
ARTICLE BY LUCY ROGERS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
The Cali Tote by local designer Stephanie Keyser combines durability with design making it the ideal accessory. stephaniekeyser.com
