Historic preservation

Hotel lobby reception desk at Hotel Vandivort with a wooden front desk, a large gold V logo on a greenery background on the wall behind the desk, and two staff members working at computers.
Modern building with glass balcony and geometric design, above a brick building, during dusk or early evening.

The proposed redevelopment of Cupples 9 transforms a historic industrial warehouse into a luxury hospitality destination while preserving the character that defines its place in St. Louis history. The concept embraces the building’s original use through the preservation of exposed structural systems, masonry, large industrial openings, and other authentic architectural elements that tell the story of the former factory complex. One of the project's greatest design challenges was adapting the hotel program to floor plates that varied significantly from level to level, requiring unique planning strategies and tailored programming throughout the building. Reimagined as a full-service hotel with upscale amenities, dining and social spaces, and panoramic views overlooking the historic Cardinals stadium district, the design celebrates the building’s industrial heritage while creating a distinctive guest experience rooted in the history and identity of downtown St. Louis.

Interior of a cozy, upscale restaurant or hotel lobby with wooden floors, walls, and ceiling beams. Dim lighting, decorative rugs, and a unique lighting fixture hanging from the ceiling. Black wine bottles are stored on racks on the wooden beams, and there's a sitting area with tables and chairs to the right.
Exterior view of a brick hotel building with a black awning, illuminated with small lights, displaying the words 'Landvor Hotel' and enclosed within black frames.

The Hotel Vandivort transformed Springfield’s historic Masonic Temple into a full-service boutique hotel, breathing new life into one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. The adaptive reuse project carefully preserved significant architectural features and historic character while introducing modern guest accommodations, dining venues, event spaces, and hospitality amenities throughout the building. Balancing preservation with contemporary functionality required thoughtful integration of new building systems and programming within the existing structure, ensuring the original architecture remained a focal point of the guest experience. The result is a destination that honors the building’s storied past while establishing a vibrant new chapter as a cornerstone of downtown Springfield.

Two glass elevator doors with stainless steel frames, set in a wall with dark geometric patterned tiles. The elevator buttons are in a panel between the doors with a sign above them. The reflection in the glass shows a brick wall with the word "Lobby" written on it.
Interior of a rustic brick-walled cafe or restaurant with large arched windows, hanging pendant lights, and small round tables with chairs.
Modern kitchen and dining area with dark cabinetry, marble countertops, and wooden flooring, featuring a staircase with wooden steps and black railing.
A brightly lit restaurant with wooden tables and chairs, large windows, a gallery wall with artwork, and green decorative fishing nets hanging from the ceiling.

The Centennial Malt House represents a thoughtful balance between historic preservation and contemporary redevelopment. Throughout the transformation of the former industrial malt processing facility, significant effort was made to retain and celebrate the building’s original character, including exposed timber beams, historic brick masonry, structural columns, hardwood elements, and other defining architectural features. These preserved components now serve as the backdrop for a vibrant mixed-use destination that includes a modern eclectic restaurant, event venues, a speakeasy, and twelve residential apartment units. By carefully integrating new programmatic needs within the existing historic framework, the project honors the building’s industrial heritage while creating a dynamic environment suited for modern living, dining, and gathering.

A bartender with glasses and tattoos on his arm looking at a tablet in a dimly lit bar with wooden shelves and bottles in the background. There are patrons in the foreground, one in a red shirt.
Interior of a modern apartment with exposed brick walls and large windows, showing kitchen cabinets, stainless steel appliances, hardwood floors, and visible ductwork on the ceiling.

This historic Shaw neighborhood residence was thoughtfully renovated to preserve the architectural character and integrity of the original home while adapting it to reflect the vision of its new homeowner. Existing features and defining details were carefully maintained and restored, ensuring the home remained connected to its historic context and neighborhood fabric. At the same time, contemporary updates, customized living spaces, and curated material selections introduced a fresh identity that reflects the homeowner's lifestyle and personality. The result is a seamless blend of historic charm and modern living, where original character and new personality coexist harmoniously.

Shenandoah Residence

St. Louis, Missouri

A city street scene with a mix of modern and older buildings, parked cars, and a tree on the right side under a blue sky with some clouds.
A stylish bedroom with a exposed wooden ceiling, brick wall, large arched window, and modern decor including a white bed, leather couch, and a desk with a chair.
People relaxing and socializing on a rooftop terrace with a pool in an urban setting, surrounded by potted plants and city skyscrapers.
People socializing on a rooftop terrace during sunset, with some sitting on lounge chairs near a pool, others standing and chatting, and a modern building with large glass windows in the background.

Louis C. Curtiss Studio Historic Renovation

Kansas City, Missouri

The proposed redevelopment of the historic Louis C. Curtiss Studio reimagines one of Kansas City’s most architecturally significant buildings as a vibrant hospitality and entertainment destination. The concept preserves the character-defining features of the landmark structure while introducing a dynamic mix of uses, including a sportsbook, multiple bar experiences, and boutique Airbnb accommodations. Historic materials, architectural details, and the building’s unique craftsmanship remain central to the design approach, allowing the property's rich history to coexist with modern amenities and programming. The result is a destination that celebrates the legacy of Louis Curtiss while creating new opportunities for gathering, entertainment, and overnight stays in the heart of Kansas City.

Cupples 9 Hotel

St. Louis, Missouri