Posts in Homes
Sophisticated Living SOPHI Awards 2024

The “Oscars” of the architectural, building, and interior design industries took place on November 6th, and what a night it was. As they say in movie parlance, “That’s a Wrap!” The dazzling event crystallized at the posh and historic 21c Museum hotel, and was the result of months of scrupulous planning to showcase the best and brightest stars of St. Louis. First, on the street, cars lined up for the valet, attendees then climbed the colorful “Fallen Fruit” staircase up to the 21c museum areas. Servers passed delicious hors d’oeuvres. Guests supped craft cocktails, top-shelf bourbons, fine wines, and all manner of libations while mingling with the tony crowd. A tingle was in the air as the time was approaching to find out who would walk away with a coveted SOPHI. Wait no more… Read on to see who won and the work that earned their trophies.

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Why Sell Now?

The St. Louis real estate market is strong. Of course, there are many distractions that cause one to worry if they are making the right real estate decision for their future. No one has a crystal ball. But, selling right now in most instances is a sound choice.  Purchasing your next home is a sound choice. Make sure you consult a professional Realtor to help guide you through the minutia of contracts, negotiations, municipal and legal aspects of every deal. Realtor Julie Lane gives advice on why you might consider selling now.

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The Art and Science of Building: Seeing the World Differently

Bob Clark has built one of the country’s largest construction firms, Clayco. Here, he reflects on his journey from start-up to top builder, evolving from his earliest company motto, "Construction Success" to the current one, "The Art and Science of Building."
Through the years, renowned photographer Matt McFarland has captured the essence of Clark's vision. Read and see more about how their partnership continues to make an indelible industry imprint for all to see now and into the future.

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Oh, Zillow

Chris Stratmann and Clif LaPlante resided in the Central West End. After years in a 6,000-square foot historic home on Westminster Place, they had downsized to a condo. And then they started browsing online, and, well — Oh, Zillow. They found a home on a 1-acre lot not far from the city, and with a little imagination they have transformed the 1928 house the original owners would recognize from the front drive. But that’s all. Read on to find out how the online home search engine Zillow changed their lives.

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The House in the Hill

Overlooking the lush woods of Queeny Park sits a modern, sleek home which some refer to as “the magazine house,” and others simply use the adjectives “relaxing” and “cozy” to describe the homestead. Read on and decide for yourself whether this West St. Louis County home is indeed both.

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Smart. Einstein Smart.

Meet Ladue’s home of the future. Not only is it smart, it’s Einstein smart. Built by Mitchell Wall Architecture & Design, the 2-story home features a Creston control system run by Josh, a fundamental A.I. house manager. Read here how the homeowners got the contemporary house they wanted fit for six with the latest and greatest technology.

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My Magical Cottage in the Woods

When you design high-end kitchens and baths for a living, it’s hard to pick your five or even 10 favorite projects. And that’s how it was with Jenny Rausch from Karr Bick Kitchen & Bath. I might as well have asked her to choose her favorite child. Instead, she offered, “My favorite thing I have ever designed is our family’s cottage in the woods.” After I looked at photos and heard the story of the cottage, it was easy to see and understand why.

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