See the winning projects of Design STL’s 2021 Architect & Designer Awards

Each year, the Design STL editors select a local individual or couple to honor with the Visionary Award. This person is recognized for his or her unique contributions to the design community, and, through their efforts and actions, help make St. Louis a more interesting and exciting place to live. 

This year, we’re thrilled to bestow the award on Susan Sherman. Susan is known and respected for her tireless work on behalf of the organizations that she champions, but none is more closely associated with her than the Saint Louis Fashion Fund, which she co-founded. Under Susan’s leadership and guidance, the Fashion Fund has nurtured emerging designers, promoted fashion education, and helped revitalize St. Louis’s historic garment district, bringing national press attention as well as jobs to our city. The Fund’s Fashion Incubator attracted promising design talent and helped facilitate the rise of St. Louis as an attractive and viable option for fashion companies and manufacturers to do business. One of the most successful examples of this endeavor is Evolution St. Louis, a $5 million high-tech knitwear company that opened its first facility in St. Louis.

Susan is also the co-founder of MERCH, a small St. Louis–based business that connects acclaimed fashion brands with St. Louis clients through pop-up shops for such brands as Proenza Schuler, Jeffrey Levinson, Mansur Gavriel, Moss Antiques, and more. 

Past Visionary Award winners include Esley Hamilton, Alise O’Brien, and Carol and Pat Schuchard.

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Addition

SPACE Architects + Designers + Builders

The client purchased a 1,600-square-foot teardown in a historic neighborhood. Wishing to maintain the character of the street, he decided that rather than tear it down, he would build a contemporary addition, clad in ipe wood, on the back of the home, visible only from the driveway. The connection between the old and the new structures was straightforward on the first floor, but upstairs a bedroom was turned into a home office/passageway leading into the new wing, which holds a bathroom, two bedrooms, and a playroom. The large family room, on the first floor, holds a floating fireplace, custom shelves, and a coffee table designed for both work and entertaining. Though elegant, the furnishings are commercial grade for durability and comfort. 

Apartment Living

Marcia Moore, Marcia Moore Design

The designer’s goal was to create a homey atmosphere for a client who was downsizing from a large home into a rented townhome. While some of the client’s pieces from her former home transitioned easily into the new space, others were too large. Moore took inventory and made her selections. She elected to paint an accent wall, update light fixtures, and change vertical blinds to draperies. Existing carpet was swapped out for luxury vinyl in the main living areas. The dining room is dinner-party ready with an industrial-style table surrounded by an assortment of chairs and illuminated by a statement chandelier. The adjacent living area is anchored by a hand-knotted Bokhara rug. Reupholstered in dark brown embossed velvet, a Hollywood Regency style sofa and accompanying armchair offer elegant seating. The boho vibe continues into the lower level, where a new sectional is the ideal place to lounge. 

Children's Room

Kelly Johnson and Morgan Brown, Kelly Johnson Design

Who wouldn’t want to spend the night in this inviting guest bedroom designed with the client’s grandchildren, who are frequent houseguests, in mind? This bunk room sleeps six comfortably, with plenty of built-in storage for extra pillows, linens, and clothes, at the ready. Adding a touch of whimsy to the room is that wonderful, iconic wall covering from Scalamandré that appeals to both boys and girls of all ages. The black-and-white zebra theme is, in fact, repeated in a subtle manner throughout the room, as seen in the selection of light fixtures as well as the design of the window treatments and the choice of bed linens and decorative accents. 

Commercial Restaurant Space

SPACE Architects + Designers + Builders

This nonprofit client’s mission is to provide a forum for expression, everything from Shakespeare to comics to music. The built result of this mission is a multifunctional building that includes a coffeehouse, offices for arts nonprofits, workspaces for visiting writers, and an event space. The design embraces the beauty of the 90-year-old building, including board-formed concrete ceilings, white walls, and new windows to illuminate it all. The furnishings in the café—the most public part of the building—were a priority. The goal was to set the tone with carefully budgeted selections. In addition to using books as décor, the designer researched tables to serve as the centerpiece of the space and found inspiration in renowned Black writer and activist James Baldwin, whose own home featured a Welcome Table, where he entertained guests and made them feel at home. SPACE’s fabrication team produced Baldwin-inspired Welcome Tables, and the writer’s signature purple is used throughout the space.

Commercial Retail Space

Arcturis

This retail space is meant to provide an experience in a minimal yet dramatic environment where the client’s distinctive jewelry line is the main attraction. The finishes, lighting, and casework details are informed by the look of modern Gothic luxury. Upon entering the showroom, guests are welcomed into a dimly lit black-painted room with a single display case that holds a handsome taxidermy peacock. Inside, the glow of natural light from a large skylight and glass exterior wall illuminates the spacious room. Fitted with a bar, dining table, indoor lounge, and outdoor patio, the showroom is designed to double as an event space. 

Custom Furniture Design

Lauren Sweet-Schuler, Castle Design



Classic Woodworking 

Modern European furniture design was the inspiration for this custom wall-hung credenza with shelves. The designer had seen the bevel concept for the shelves on a piece of metal furniture and called Classic Woodworking to create the same look with wood. Vertical dividers provide discrete spaces for sculpture, books, and artwork. Two neutral tones pulled from the rug are used in a lacquer finish that provides durability and subtle sheen. Touch-latch mechanisms on the doors and drawers allow for continuity of lines and help maintain the focus on the contents of the shelves. Outlets inside the lower cabinet, and a hidden grommet at the top of the structure, offer a simple solution for items that require power. 

Dining Room + Historic Residential Renovation + Home Office/Library

Robert Idol, Robert Idol Design

The owners of this Victorian Italianate home wanted a return to its original glory, and the designer chose to exaggerate the drama of the period through a modern lens. He embraced the limited natural light in the entry with dark walls and trim. Inspired by the client’s love for animals and pastoral landscapes, the designer installed a large-scale wallpaper befitting that look in the dining room. Window treatments, upholstery fabrics, and antiques offer an updated tribute to the Victorian era. Tall ceilings and a dark green bookcase set the mood in the home office, where an artful blend of wools, cotton textiles, and rich velvets is set off by a vibrant patterned rug. The designer chose to upholster the walls in wool to further infuse a centuries-old appearance. Its application adds an element of warmth, solitude, and acoustical softening. 

Foyer + Use of Fabric/Wallcovering

Liz Basler, Castle Design

The new entry space sets the tone for the home’s classic design and also reflects the homeowner’s love of all things equestrian. The designer began by opening up and unifying the foyer and staircase. The staircase was upgraded with custom wall molding, new lighting, white enamel paint, and a runner. Unafraid to use layers of color and pattern, the designer selected a William Morris wallpaper and had the seat cushion on a charming hand-painted bench covered in a complementary Morris fabric. The original flooring was replaced with job-finished hardwood floors set on the diagonal and finished in a warm walnut stain. A richly colored Jaipur rug completes the room. 

Great Room

Emily Hall, Emily Hall Interiors

The designer was tasked with blending the husband’s strong masculine style with the wife’s chic feminine aesthetic. In the home’s Tudor-inspired great room, its vaulted ceiling and expansive windows, contemporary artwork, vintage textiles, reupholstered furniture, and a splash of color meld to yield a stylish, intimate feel. Both husband and wife have an appreciation for antiques, and the designer called on her treasure-hunting skills to find objects and furnishings collected from various periods and styles. 

Lower Level

Gina Dill-Thebeau, Dill-Thebeau Design Company

A client’s trip to Africa 20 years ago was the inspiration for this comfy lower-level seating area, bar, and playroom. A hair-on hide drum table and other traditional accessories and crafts remind the homeowners of their travels. A center table of wood and string, a porcupine quill mirror, and banana leaf paintings purchased in Africa evoke precious memories; sophisticated clean-lined furnishings balance these earthy elements. In the play area, a child-sized sectional and chair, basket wall hangings, and a stuffed giraffe add to the atmosphere. 

Main Suite

Kelly Johnson and Morgan Brown, Kelly Johnson Design

This suite is a study in cream, ivory, and beige, intended to infuse tranquility. The ceiling is finished in stained pine shiplap, the chandelier is wrapped in jute. A large painting pays homage to love. Serenity also reigns in the main bath, where the design has been similarly pared down to allow nature to dominate. In a bid to draw attention to the view, the designers used cerused rift-sawn white oak for the cabinetry and left the windows bare. Instead of a freestanding tub, the client requested a tub deck; the designers placed it beneath a barrel vault to update the look.

Modern Bath (less than 150 sq. ft.)

Studio Lark

The reworking of this half-bath, which included the addition of a new shower, was the first phase of an extensive interior renovation of a Midcentury Modern home. The designer contrasted dark porcelain floor tile with the white walls to maximize light. A modern graphic floral wallpaper adds pattern and color. A wall-mounted walnut vanity imparts warmth. Finishing touches include white quartz countertops, globe sconces, and a round mirror.

Modern Bath (more than 150 sq. ft.)

Amie Corley, Amie Corley Interiors

This main bath was part of a new build in rural Illinois, and the designer set out to create an interesting layered space with a clean, modern feel. A soaking tub anchors the room at the large window and a vanity extends from one wall to another with double sinks, an inset paneled mirror, and a makeup area. The shower’s brass fixtures sparkle against the handmade midnight-blue tile. Such elements as a heated towel bar add luxury. The blue-and-white mosaic floor ups the interest level and keeps the sizable space from feeling cavernous. Natural materials, like the rope stool, charming abaca crocodile rug, and woven jute shade, add warmth and texture.

Modern Kitchen (less than 300 sq. ft.)

Amie Corley, Amie Corley Interiors

A back staircase and walls dividing the breakfast room from the kitchen were removed to create a more open floor plan that now holds a new kitchen dressed in classic materials but with a modern flow. The kitchen is still small, but the designer managed to fit in everything the client requested: a powder-coated custom hood with stainless steel strapping, a Lacanche range with an industrial French air. The countertops and floating shelves are marble. The homeowner’s collection of tableware is displayed in floor-to-ceiling shelves in the breakfast room. The lighting includes two classic Rover pendants over the island and a Midcentury three-arm chandelier above the breakfast table. 

Modern Kitchen (more than 300 sq. ft.)

Kim Taylor West, K Taylor Design Group

The inspiration for this modern kitchen, situated in a 1920s home, was discovered in a photo found by the client. To bring the owner’s dream to life, the designer first had to tackle such challenges as the presence of several radiators, varying ceiling heights, a hard budget, and tall windows. Fabricating and installing the 10-by-12-foot book-matched marble backsplash was also a feat. A white tile floor and matte black cabinets add drama; brushed gold hardware and counter stools bring a touch of glam. Such natural materials as honed marble, walnut, and reclaimed wood combine beautifully with the room’s modern lines. 

New Build + Vacation Home

Amy Studebaker and Michelle Thore, Amy Studebaker Design



Jeffrey Hancox, Hancox Group Inc.

A mix of exterior elements—board-and-batten siding, reclaimed beams, metal and synthetic shingle roofing, oversized doors—helps give this 5,000-square-foot residence, built for relaxation and entertaining, the look of a barn. The interior is open-concept on all four levels, including a “secret” loft accessed by a ladder located inside one of two bunkrooms. The designers chose concrete floors in the lower-level garage and carried them throughout the house to impart an industrial look. A floating staircase delivers guests to the main level, where the living room, dining room, bar, and kitchen are located, and a stone wall spanning the length of the house serves as the home’s focal point. Exposed beams provide structural support while adding to the desired barn vibe. Oversized windows look out on country views.

Outdoor Living Space

Kelly Johnson, Kelly Johnson Design

The many outdoor living spaces around this property make it easy to enjoy the serenity of the wooded setting. Just off the rear of the home is a large veranda outfitted with a kitchen, fireplace, television, and infrared heaters to extend the outdoor season. Modern furnishings in subdued neutrals complement the architecture and provide a conversation area, as well as a place for alfresco dining. The bluestone floor of the veranda runs out to a balcony with more bistro seating. Just behind the veranda, a custom fire pit area offers an alternate gathering space and shares a view of the putting green and Zen garden.

Overall Home Design

Annie Brahler, Euro Trash

The designer undertook a complete renovation of and several additions to this home in the interest of serving the owners, a family with four young children, as well as their love for both casual and formal entertaining. These goals were met through the selection of modern and antique building materials, finishes, and furnishings. The use of vintage pieces, with their inherent patina, invites the wear and tear of life, making them more beautiful with time. In the rooms and gardens of this Mediterranean-style property, nods to Hollywood Regency, Art Nouveau, European antiques, and Midcentury Modern abound. 

Powder Room

Liz Basler, Castle Design



Marc Christian Fine Cabinetry

The designer turned a coat closet in the front hall into a half-bath finished in the same classic design as the rest of the house. A beautiful warm gray custom vanity is topped with creamy marble and trimmed in gold. The straight lines of the vanity contrast with the soft curve of an oversized backsplash and quatrefoil mirror. Three heirloom silver platters, echoing the curves of that mirror, also hang on the wall. Gold fixtures and hardware match the statement brass light fixture, as well as the golden glaze on the vanity drawers and the mirror. 

Remodel

Studio Lark



Full Circle Design Works

This penthouse condominium underwent an interior renovation to bring continuity to its rooms and provide a serene light-filled backdrop for the clients’ art collection. A neutral palette of materials—high-gloss white kitchen cabinetry, gray wood veneer, stained oak, dark porcelain tile—contrasts with soft, textural furniture and rugs. A banquette and airy chandelier anchor the new kitchen, and a custom wine niche lined with the same veneered paneling makes a statement in the media room. The main bath was enlarged to include a new shower, clad in milky glass tile. In the foyer, a dramatic feathery pendant light, surrounded by colorful artwork, makes a high-impact impression.

Specialty Room

Kelly Johnson, Kelly Johnson Design 



Jim Howard, Alspaugh Kitchen and Bath

This butler’s pantry is situated near the dining room, adjacent to the kitchen, and easily accessible to the outdoor living areas, making it a hub of activity when the owners entertain at home. The wall of cabinetry conceals appliances and serves as storage, and the designers chose a rich olive green finish for the cabinets to tie in with an accent color seen throughout the home. Countertops of black diamond soapstone add drama and serve a practical function. A full-height wall of antiqued mirrored tiles, decorated with elegant brass sconces, is flanked by tower cabinets. 

Traditional Bath (less than 150 sq. ft.)

Rae Duncan, Rae Duncan Interior Design

This small bathroom was updated to reflect traditional charm. In choosing a stylish combination of design elements—clean-lined vanity mirrors, black matte fixtures, statement sconces—and pairing them with a rustic-leaning cabinet, gold hardware, and vintage penny tile, the designer fashioned a space that feels just right. The room’s sage green paint color envelops the room in warmth. 

Traditional Bath (more than 150 sq. ft.)

Janelle Helms, Karr Bick Kitchen and Bath

The designer’s remodel has left this bathroom, once covered in blue trellis wallpaper and beige tile, looking as if it could be original to the 1929 Tudor that houses it. Starting from scratch, the designer added luxurious classic touches: honed marble in the shower, a freestanding tub with brass feet, rich walnut cabinetry, a showstopping black-and-white marble floor, Italian brass and plumbing fixtures. Dark-green wainscoting highlights the walnut and marble. The team also altered the floor plan: The original doorway was at the far left of the room, but centering it on the window yielded a dramatic entrance. 

Traditional Interior Design

Meghan Heeter, Castle Design



Randy Renner, Period Restoration



Jim Howard, Alspaugh Kitchen and Bath

The homeowners were beginning to outgrow their house—the small kitchen, the lack of a central gathering place—and considered moving. Instead, they decided to add on a kitchen, great room, and outdoor terrace. From leaded glass windows to exposed decorative beams, the addition is replete with classical elements. Hand-forged iron chandeliers and pendants look striking in the kitchen and great room and blend in with the home’s original fixtures. Soft, upholstered pieces in the great room are juxtaposed with rustic iron and reclaimed wood side tables. Historic textiles add stately elegance. 

Traditional Kitchen (less than 300 sq. ft.)

Kelly Johnson, Kelly Johnson Design



Jim Howard, Alspaugh Kitchen and Bath

The objective of this kitchen design was to keep the architecture front and center while addressing the client’s need for function and storage. The designer chose materials that would complement the rest of the house. Soft white cabinets, capped with marble countertops and backsplash, blend into the walls; a simple exhaust hood is fashioned from antiqued zinc and brass; cerused rift-sawn white oak covers the farmhouse-style island and refrigeration wall. The diagonal orientation of the 4-inch V-groove oak door panel inserts mimic the vaulted shiplap-clad ceiling. 

Traditional Kitchen (more than 300 sq. ft.)

Brett Clark, Savvy Design Group



Chris Paul, Alspaugh Kitchen and Bath

The renovation of this turn-of-the-century home included a kitchen remodel designed to support the homeowner’s passion for cooking. The team began by relocating a staircase to make room for a large cased opening into the living room and removing windows and doors to optimize an open layout. In so doing, they limited the availability of usable wall space: Their solution? Build the kitchen around a large island, offering both an aesthetic focal point and a functional cooking hub. A striking Italian range with brass and nickel hardware inspired design choices in the surrounding custom pot rack, countertop rail, and hood. A walnut hutch, fashioned with leaded antique glass doors and brass hardware, pays homage to the cabinetry in the home’s original butler’s pantry. 

Use of Color

Justin Maine and Michael Wyrock, Nistenhaus Design

This 1930s Craftsman bungalow was designed in a retro-inspired fashion with touches of modern elements for an updated take on a bygone era. The home’s age and wall trim called for saturated colors, and the clients wanted to push the color scheme in a new direction. Deep wood texture combines with high-gloss paint on the kitchen cabinets. Though it’s a simple palette, the contrast in the colors allowed the designers to go bold on the backsplash, hovering between retro and modern. Countertops are downplayed with a simple white laminate, complete with a stainless steel banding on the edge profile. These bold finishes, though considerably modern, still offer a level of warmth.

Window Treatment Design

Candice Wideman, Youtopia Designs



Norma O’Bryan, Discount Draperies 

The window treatments in this main bedroom add color, texture, and dimension to the space. The design team, addressing the challenge of windows of various heights, elected to use a mock-Roman top treatment to coax the eye up and create the look of windows of the same height. The designers then added Monarch specialty pleat drapery panels to frame the windows. To anchor the base of the panels, the team added contrasting velvet, plus beaded Samuel & Sons trim to delineate the meeting of the two fabrics.