See the winning projects of St. Louis Magazine's 2023 Architect & Designer Awards

Our annual competition, now in its 16th year, received 178 submissions in 32 categories. From cozy great rooms and elegant dining spaces to custom furniture design and colorful powder rooms, St. Louis homes have never looked chicer.

Join St. Louis Magazine on April 18 at Barrett Barrera Projects in the Central West End as we celebrate the honorees of the 2023 competition, presented by Interior Design Center of St. Louis. Tickets are limited; RSVP here by April 10. 

Addition

Thomas Wall, Mitchell Wall Architecture & Design + R.G. Ross Construction

The latest addition to this original home—which was built in the 1920s and expanded in the ’90s—enclosed the open-air courtyard to create a solarium that connects the two wings and provides ample space for year-round entertaining without sacrificing the ambience of the previous outdoor area. The designers added a carved stone fountain with patterned blue iridescent tiles that mimic the exterior of the newly enclosed area.

Finalists: Julie Baur, Baur Interiors / Randy Renner, Period Restoration

Apartment Living, Use of Color

Jessie D. Miller Interior Design

Apartment Living: The designer Jessie D. Miller was driven by the client’s lifestyle to design an alluring cocktail lounge in place of a traditional dining area that would likely see little use. To further reflect the apartment owner’s interests, Miller sourced furniture and accessories from local vintage and antique shops. Minimalist window treatments frame rather than distract from the stunning view.

Finalist: Elizabeth and Luke Pulliam, Hercules Design Build

Use of Color: Color played a minimal but important role in the design. Miller wanted to maintain a sleek, moody vibe. To do so, she balanced black and gold with oranges and greens in the main living space. The main bedroom is bathed in a rich, dark chocolate.

Finalists: Joni Spear Interior Design / Temple and Hentz

Best of Outdoor Living

Tamsin Design Group + Forney + Architecture

The design team created terraced zones for the various outdoor spaces—pool, spa, kitchen, pizza oven, firepit, and artificial turf play area—to accommodate the clients’ desire for a resort-style atmosphere suitable for all ages. The home’s Palladian architecture is echoed through the use of intricate brick detailing on the pizza oven and an elegant arch above the custom copper hood, among other features.

Finalist: Thomas Wall, Mitchell Wall Architecture & Design + PK Construction

Children's Room

Channing Krichevsky, C&M Interiors

The room’s small footprint and minimal wall space made this a fun challenge for the designer. Working within the architecture of a historic home, she selected traditional furnishings that complement the home’s other interiors.  Custom window treatments, wallpaper by Ralph Lauren Home, and a lovely colorful trim meld in an inspiring and youthful space that will stand the test of time.

Finalists: Rebekah Moore Murphy & Katherine Moore, Stone Hall Cabinetry / Jennifer Rapp, JCR Design Group

Commercial Hotel Space

Amanda McAllister, Trivers + EoA Group

Transforming the historic Saunders-Kennedy Building into a boutique hotel required demolition of portions of the upper-floor plates to allow light into the core of the seven-story structure. Drawing inspiration from a family of peregrine falcons living atop a neighboring building, the designers incorporated custom fabrics and fixtures, as well as an oversized mural in the building’s skywell. The Peregrine, located in downtown Omaha, holds 89 guest rooms, a retail shop, a restaurant, a lounge with meeting rooms, and a rooftop bar.

Finalists: Gray Design Group (Aloft St. Louis Cortex) / Gray Design Group (Element by Westin in Midtown)

Commercial Restaurant Space 

Oculus Inc. 

The redesign of this popular beachside grill  in Newport, Oregon, was driven by the owner’s desire to provide a beautiful and more accessible guest experience. The dining room layout was reworked to increase seating capacity from 100 to 118. Adding on to the lobby and entry vestibule provided much needed additional waiting and bar-service area. Warm woods, vibrant brass, and the deep, cool hues of the Pacific Ocean set the scene for a sophisticated dining experience.

Finalists: R|5 Design Agency (Cinder House) / Deb Vuagniaux, Karr Bick Kitchen and Bath (1818 Offshore)

Custom Furniture Design

Martin Goebel, Goebel & Co. Furniture

The four-poster bed frame, made of Michigan black walnut that was salvaged from storm-damaged trees, is designed with a book-matched sunburst veneer that references morning and evening. Matching orbs, capped with whimsical tall spiraling finials, appear on the footboard and headboard. As the barley twists carve through the dark walnut’s tight graining, a spectrum of reds and blues gives way to brown, black, and amber.

Finalists: Richard Higby Design (bar cart) / Richard Higby Design (shelf)

Dining Room

C&M Interiors + Victoria Pantanella Design

This historic St. Louis home is designed with classical elements, and the dining room reflects the homeowners’ elegant taste. Handpainted de Gournay wallpaper enlivens the walls, and rich wood, as seen in the mix of antique furnishings, adds warmth throughout the space. The room’s striking palette—green, black, gold, and pink—shows up in the luxurious carpets, fabrics, and trims.

Finalists: Amy Studebaker Design / Ashley Obradovits, Karr Bick Kitchen and Bath

Fireplace

Temple and Hentz

At more than 12 feet tall, this sizable fireplace is surprisingly subtle: Note how the color fades effortlessly into the surrounding wall color. A three-dimensional mosaic porcelain tile was laid vertically to direct the eye up the wall. Installing tile from floor to ceiling, even under the mantel, yields a column effect that accentuates the size of the fireplace, which surrounds an oversized wood-burning box. A cantilevered hearth in granite extends across the room, providing bench-style seating facing out onto the wooded property.

Finalist: Studio Lark

Traditional Interior Design, Foyer, Remodel, Traditional Bath (less than 150 square feet)

Amy Studebaker Design

Traditional Interior Design

The owner/designer wanted a classic look for her home but also one that invited creativity into the picture. Working with a traditional palette of blue and white for the upholstered furnishings, she added a twist to the living room design by introducing a custom cocktail table—lacquered in a soft green and paired with a blue velvet sofa—as the room’s centerpiece. In the dining room, a vintage wood hutch gets a refresh with green-painted shelves and backdrop, and beams across the ceiling finish the look. The dressing room, with its pink-and-green wallpaper, salmon silk window panels, and elegant upholstered sofa, is an inviting place to lounge.

Finalists: Jackie Leisler Design / Karen Korn & Molly Ryan, Karen Korn Interiors

Foyer

This original foyer felt dark and closed off, and the chair rail cut the space in half, making the room appear even smaller. The brick floor didn’t feel right for the space, either. The designer elected to paint the room white and add wall molding for added sophistication. She also chose to have the floors sanded and stained, but the result felt flat and uninspiring. Determined to further brighten the space, Studebaker had the floor painted white and hired a local decorative painter to map out a geometric design. Vintage and antique artwork was reframed and positioned between moldings to impart the look of a gallery. The vintage bamboo chairs were reupholstered in a blue-and-white ticking stripe that nods to the floor.

Finalist: Studio Lark

Remodel

The remodel included reconfiguring the main level of the designer’s own 1950s Colonial by moving the dining room to the back of the house, transforming its former location into an office, and creating more space for her son and his friends to play in. Studebaker wanted to maximize the potential of the home’s exterior. To do so, she had the original balcony removed. In its place, she designed a new balcony with large columns and an elegant rail.

Finalists: Chouteau Building Group + Amie Corley Interiors + Fendler + Associates, Inc. / Joni Spear Interior Design

Traditional Bath (less than 150 square feet)

This primary bathroom was enlarged to hold a steam shower, standalone tub, and unique brass–and–Carrara marble double-sink vanity that Studebaker herself designed. Reconfiguring the vanity and removing an unnecessary window yielded space in which to install wall storage. The marble and white tub, walls, and linen draperies contribute to the room’s timeless design.

Finalists: Temple and Hentz / Dawn Patterson, RSI Kitchen & Bath

Great Room

Kelly Johnson Design

The designer’s challenge was to transform the room into a sophisticated space that would be suitable for everyday gatherings. The monochrome palette establishes a tranquil ambiance; textural contrasts in the wallpaper, velvet pillows, linen drapes, and silk-and-wool rug provide warmth and depth. For practical purposes, performance fabrics were used throughout. The television is visible from every seat in the room. An elegant daybed and a small round table for board games add to the room’s functionality.

Finalists: Amy Studebaker Design / Randy Renner, Period Restoration

Historic Residential Renovation

Joni Spear Interior Design

The exterior wall of the kitchen was taken down to permit construction of a 10-foot addition inspired by a slab of marble that now tops the island that serves as the room’s centerpiece. Spanish revival pendants, salvaged from a local restaurant, hang above the island. Reclaimed wood drawers—juxtaposed with custom glass cupboards and butcher-block counters—add interest and functionality. The kitchen’s lined with counters of soapstone to balance the subtle mushroom color of the cabinets. Handmade Zellige tile, set in a running bond pattern, pays homage to the home’s 1950s roots.

Finalists: Schaub Projects Architecture + Design / Chouteau Building Group + Amie Corley Interiors + Fendler + Associates, Inc.

Home Office / Library

C&M Interiors

Pocket doors, traditional millwork, and elegant wainscoting have been added throughout the newly constructed home, including this office. The designers selected iron finishes that accent neutral shades in the wall color, furniture, and carpet. The bespoke desk was made in St. Louis, and the desk chair is a vintage find re-covered in a handsome Holland & Sherry fabric.

Finalists: Ashley Obradovits & Janelle Helms, Karr Bick Kitchen and Bath / Kelly Johnson, Kelly Johnson Design

House of the Year, Modern Kitchen (greater than 300 square feet)

Studio Lark

House of the Year

This home sits on property adjacent to a park. Though the owners were prepared to demolish and build anew, the 1970s ranch had many assets, including its position on a sloping site, a veneer of locally sourced stone, and salvaged Douglas fir beams. Choosing to maintain the stone foundation and build around it, the designers prioritized picturesque views while retaining the core that connects a separate living area at grade and a main-floor dwelling space above it. Shou sugi ban—charred wood, a Japanese finish—and thermally treated poplar wrap the exterior.

Finalists: Anna Bukhshtaber / Karr Bick Kitchen and Bath + Dan Rosenthal AIA, BSI Constructors

Modern Kitchen (greater than 300 square feet)

This kitchen was designed for owners who love to cook and entertain, hence the 16-foot-long mahogany–and–black granite island that takes center stage. White oak floors flow through the kitchen. Custom cabinetry, high-contrast black tile, and brass lighting and hardware contrast with the white walls. Midcentury modern furniture—including Eames chairs and Bertoia stools—provides style and function.

Finalist: Jenny Gossow, JG Design Studio + David Mast, Okaw Valley Woodworking

Lower Level

Forney + Architecture + Tamsin Design Group

This lower level has it all: a wine room, concession area, theater and game room, family lounge, and lodge. The wine room boasts a barrel ceiling with intricate stonework, a spiral staircase, and a glass ceiling with views to the first floor. A large sectional grounds the family lounge, outfitted with custom brass-and-leather booths, and a concession area that holds soda, popcorn, and hot dog machine. Family movie nights are held in the theater room, boasting theater seats, a backlit oval tray ceiling, and wall upholstery that conceals the sound system. The “lodge,” with a custom cigar humidor, is defined by classic oak woodwork. Paneled beams and soffits add interest and utility, hiding the room’s complex steel structure and mechanical systems.

Finalists: Katie Gelsheimer, Katie Gelsheimer Home + Design / Srote & Company + Tegethoff Homes

Modern Bath (greater than 150 square feet) 

Randy Renner, Period Restoration

This primary bath features a heated tile floor, Kallista plumbing fixtures, and an accent wall adorned with handmade tiles. The vanities flank a newly created leaded glass window that fits the age and architecture of the circa-1925 Spanish-style home. The most stunning element is the cabinetry, built of reeded light oak and maple drawer stacks in a frameless design; the floating vanities, with wall-mounted handles, and various features of Danish influence, such as the light fixtures.

Finalists: Janelle Helms, Karr Bick Kitchen and Bath / Temple and Hentz

Modern Bath (less than 150 square feet)

Rebekah Moore Murphy, Stone Hall Cabinetry + Randy Renner, Period Restoration

Designers transformed an outdated bath into a resort-inspired escape packed with unique and practical elements, including a roomy walk-in shower with zero-entry terrazzo floor. The colors of the terrazzo coordinate beautifully with the floating walnut vanity, and the vanity wall with custom metal mirrors is designed around a stone backsplash. Wall-mounted faucets, counter-installed vessel bowls, and sconces positioned between the mirrors provide plenty of interest. The 400-pound concrete tub was crane-lifted through a window and into the finished second-story bathroom. The pendant above the tub encompasses the vacation vibe of the room.

Finalists: Wendy Kuhn, Karr Bick Kitchen and Bath / Karr Bick Kitchen and Bath + Dan Rosenthal AIA, BSI Constructors

Modern Interior Design, Modern Kitchen (less than 300 square feet)

Bower Leet Design

Modern Interior Design

This 1970s home had suffered through several renovations that ignored its style and bones. With an eye toward accentuating the basic structure, Bower Leet designers added more glass and removed walls for better flow and light. The new fireplace became a focal point on the two-story wall—accentuating the height of the space—and casework wrapped together a balcony, television, and display shelving to frame the fireplace.

Finalist: Kelly Johnson, Kelly Johnson Design

Modern Kitchen (less than 300 square feet)

In the kitchen, the appliances are organized in a clean line, allowing the designer to accommodate the homeowners’ request for a view from the kitchen island to the backyard. Opening the existing small kitchen to the living room and installing floor-to-ceiling windows into the alcove opposite the island provided more space and light. The wall behind the cooktop and hood, clad in a three-dimensional tile, is the focal point; it coordinates well with the rich wood cabinetry, white counters, and stainless steel appliances and faucet.

Finalists: Karr Bick Kitchen and Bath + Dan Rosenthal AIA, BSI Constructors / Studio Lark

New Build

Dan Rosenthal, BSI Constructors + Karr Bick Kitchen and Bath

This pool house—inspired by midcentury modern design—features folding, floor-to-ceiling doors that open to permit flow between indoors and outdoors. The team selected limestone floors, slatted wood ceilings, and waterfall legs on the granite countertops and island in the kitchen. The kitchen hood is anything but ordinary—the stone surface turns it into a focal point in the room—and the tall pantry looks like a piece of furniture, creating contrast and evoking warmth. In addition to the living room, complete with a pool table and elegant seating area, the pool house project included moving the home’s primary bedroom from the second floor to the first and renovating the bathroom with new tile and wallpaper.

Finalists: Temple and Hentz + Link Architecture / Thomas Wall, Mitchell Wall Architecture & Design + Chouteau Building Group

Powder Room

Jessie D. Miller Interior Design

The designer likes mixing patterns and bold elements in small spaces and wanted the powder room in her studio and office to exude  that spirit. She designed the space before acquiring the keys to the studio, but building it took more time and effort than she expected. There were months without running water, and the custom mural arrived at a length that was shorter than ordered. These design challenges were real, but the long-awaited results were worth it.

Finalists: Amy Studebaker Design / Randy Renner, Period Restoration

Primary Suite

C&M Interiors

In the selection of color, materials, and pattern, the designers and homeowners wanted to pay homage to the age and style of the home. The team used warm hues as their base and added accents of bright colors—such as the yellow in the curtains—to bring a feeling of cheer and elegance. The fireplace surround was salvaged from the original property and professionally refinished to fit into the bedroom, where it’s now a focal point.

Finalists: Karr Bick Kitchen and Bath / Kelly Johnson, Kelly Johnson Design

Specialty Room

Deb Vuagniaux, Karr Bick Kitchen and Bath

The designer wanted the butler’s pantry to complement the adjacent kitchen but also make a statement of its own. She achieved that goal with striking blue cabinetry, paint-matched surrounding walls, and wallpapered ceiling. A second dramatic wallpaper frames the wall of a pass-through used for serving drinks and snacks, adding panache and elegance to the space.

Finalists: Temple and Hentz + Tegethoff Homes / Thomas Wall, Mitchell Wall Architecture & Design + R.G. Ross Construction Company

Traditional Bath (greater than 150 square feet) 

Christine Paul, Glen Alspaugh Kitchen & Bath

Dramatic tile dominates this glamorous bath. A mosaic fan tile draws the eye’s attention, and other curvilinear elements, such as the vanity mirror and chandelier, emphasize the pretty shape. In the steam shower, glass mosaic tile cascades down the walls in an ombré pattern. Under the windowsill, a tiny picket-shaped tile adds one more element. The basins of a double vanity are separated by a storage tower that also delineates distinct personal spaces. Gold tones unite the plumbing fixtures, hardware, and lighting.

Finalists: Chouteau Building Group + Amie Corley Interiors + Fendler + Associates, Inc. / Jennifer Rapp, JCR Design Group

Traditional Kitchen (less than 300 square feet)

Rebekah Moore Murphy and Katherine Moore, Stone Hall Cabinetry

The designer helped transform a 1970s kitchen—with a peninsula and wall cabinetry that chopped the room in half—into a stunning space packed with statement pieces, including the range hood with a polished brass strap. The base of the range, in blue, is designed to look like a French range, though in this case it’s used for storage and features handy drawers. The bar echoes the base cabinet of the range with a high-gloss paint finish, polished brass hardware, and crémone bolts that accent the arched glass pantry door.

Finalists: Wendy Kuhn, Karr Bick Kitchen and Bath / Rebekah Moore Murphy, Stone Hall Cabinetry + Randy Renner, Period Restoration 

Traditional Kitchen (greater than 300 square feet)

Jackie Leisler Design

A busy family of four gained light, space, and efficiency with the construction of an addition onto their historic city home. The enlarged eating area called on materials used throughout the house, including the use of quartersawn oak, as seen in the wainscoting on the island. The kitchen’s beadboard ceiling matches the original ceiling of the walkout screened-in porch.

Finalists: Emily Castle, Castle Design + Becky Bircher, McMillan Cabinetmakers / Laurie LeBoeuf, Castle Design + Carla Farris, Beck/Allen Cabinetry

Use of Fabric/Wallcovering

Deb Vuagniaux, Karr Bick Kitchen and Bath

This cozy corner is one of the most special areas in a local restaurant, and a reservation at this table nook is highly coveted. Thoughtful selections—from the tile to the wallpaper—make it a standout. But the team’s biggest challenge was timing: The project began when the industry was experiencing product shortages and delays as a result of COVID-19. At various points, the designers had to be willing to shift gears, exercise patience while waiting for supplies, and manage expectations. The results were worth all the inconvenience.

Finalists: Karr Bick Kitchen and Bath / Ashley Obradovits, Karr Bick Kitchen & Bath 

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Get tickets for our Architect & Designer Awards celebration on April 18 at Barrett Barrera Projects, presented by Interior Designer Center of St. Louis.