St. Louis Style

507 Mapleview, University City

This international-styled house is unique and rare. It is located right on the edge of Clayton in walking distance to Northwest Coffee, Straub’s Farmers Market, the Art Fair and the Clayton Community Center.  Plenty of windows/skylights and a Living Room with 17’ ceilings.  Contemporary kitchen with a spacious breakfast room. Master bedroom with a large luxurious bathroom. Optional first floor bedroom that the current owner uses as a large Dining Room. The low-maintenance, luxurious landscaping is of special interest.  It is comprised of many mature, specimen evergreens and unique plantings. The house features a teak deck and a designer concrete patio. This one-of-a kind, landmark home is an ideal compliment to any stylish owner’s lifestyle.  $499,000  Contact Ted Wight, Dielmann Sotheby's Realty @ 314-607-5555 or tedwight@aol.com for more info.

85 Sorrel Lane, Ladue- Open Sunday, Feb. 7th 2-4 PM

Before you head to your Superbowl Party make sure you come to the Open House, Sunday, February 7th from 2-4 PM at 85 Sorrel Lane in Ladue. This is probably the best bargain in the area.  5 bedrooms, 3 acres, pool, pool house, outside bar, tennis court....all for only $699,000. Why is it so reasonably priced?  Well it needs your personal touches to make it special.

Rockcliffe Mansion- Hannibal, Missouri, Still for Sale

The enchanting, 13,500 sq ft Rockcliffe Mansion in Hannibal, Missouri is still available for purchase. The price is only $750,000 and includes the possessions- many from the original owners. The mansion is operating as a successful touring museum, B & B and reception venue. Contact Ted Wight @ 314-607-5555 or tedwight@aol.com for more information.

10 Westwood Country Club Grounds- Isadore Shank

A blog fan send me his photo log of the great house at 10 Westwood Country Club Grounds designed by Isadore Shank.  This important house is currently on the market for $645,000

Listed by Marcia Harris, Dielmann Sotheby's, 314-725-0009

3 Sappington Spur, Architect: Harris Armstrong, Interior

This special 1930's international-styled house was designed by the famous Harris Armstrong.  He lived in this house and developed an enclave of modernist homes in his cul-de-sac. Make sure that you look at yesterday's post for pics of the outside.  Also check the Harris Armstrong link on the left column of this blog to see more of his great designs.  This house is going on the market this Spring and will be an important "catch" for the discriminating buyer. A rare opportunity to live in a piece of architectural history.

 

Harris Armstrong's House.....Coming Soon

This Spring you will have a rare opportunity to buy one of St. Louis' gems....the house Harris Armstrong built for himself in Oakland off Sappington.  The owners of this house have been great stewards and have preserved and updated this house with care.  It has gorgeous gardens, a view of Westborough's golf course and a pool. Perfect.....enchanting...important....yours! Price upon request.  Contact me at 314-607-5555 or tedwight@aol.com for more info.

More pics and info HERE

Come back tomorrow for some interior shots.

And now some pics from a prettier time of the year....

 

The Shanley Building, Clayton- Harris Armstrong

The Shanley Building (1935)

Location: 7800 Maryland Avenue
Clayton, MO 63105

"Harris Armstrong designed this office building which was commissioned by the orthodontist Dr. Leo M. Shanley. The Shanley building was the first expression of the International style in this part of the country. Its design won Armstrong a silver medal at the Paris Exposition of 1937."

Check the blog tomorrow for a preview of the house Harris Armstrong lived in himself.  It is coming on the market this Spring and is a real gem!

Find out more about this building and Harris Armstrong: HERE, HERE & HERE 

Staging a House

More and more I have become adamant that staging an empty house is a requirement.  Recently I took over a listing in the Tower Grove area that was on the market for a year.  We staged it and it was under contract in two weeks.  Staging typically costs about 1% of the home price. Here are some before and after pics:

 

 

4639 Maryland Ave- CWE

What else would you want....a stylish CWE location within a stone's throw of Euclid...a pool...glamourous baths...and a great kitchen...2 car garage...all for $610,000. Open Today, Sunday 1-31-10  1-3 PM

Listed by Vicki Armour, Dielmann Sotheby's International Realty, 314-378-4616

3317 Magnolia- Tower Grove.....Coming Soon!

Absolutely everything is new except the solid brick walls. Stunning Brazilian cherry floors throughout the first and second floors of this first rate total renovation. Huge, open kitchen with handsome, 42”cherry cabinets, granite counters, stainless steel appliances, under cabinet lighting and granite wet bar. Separate Dining Room with a vintage, decorative fireplace. Perfect space for entertaining! Master bedroom suite on the second floor has a walk-in closet and private bath with double bowl sinks, cherry cabinets and granite counters. New thermal windows, new roof, new plumbing, new wiring. Zoned HVAC. Beautiful hand made solid mahogany front doors and kitchen door. Second floor laundry, crown molding, wide open finished 3rd floor. Nice deck off kitchen.  Yard enclosed with a privacy fence. Detached two-car garage.  STILL TAX ABATED UNTIL 2015.   $499,000

 

 

 


 
 

Olivette Diner

The Olivette Diner is one of my favorite places. It has standard diner fair and many specials.....like a grilled mahi mahi melt and what is pictured here: eggs on potato cakes with a jalapeno hollandaise...yum!

 

Stone Mill Meadown Farm- Defiance....For Sale

Now is your chance to have a country get-a-way close to St. Louis.  This historic property comes with 88 acres and is on the market for $2,995,000.

"Truly a Unique Homestead located in the historical Femme Osage Valley filled w/history & crafted like no other by direct relatives of Daniel Boone. Fenced & gated, 1 mile west of the Daniel Boone Home, close proximity to the Katy Trail, Busch Wildlife & MO's finest wineries. 2 ft thick limestone walls, 3 stories, Salt Box design. "

Sarah Butler, Dielmann Sotheby's International Realty, 314-486-2508

The CUNA Bathtub

Now this looks like the right idea for a tub design.  Find out more HERE.

A Single Man.....The mid-century house in the movie

If you have not seen A Single Man yet, make sure that you see it soon!  You will love the main character's mid-century home that has the same mood as St. Louis' own Bernoudy homes. Check out this SITE for more information on this home.

If you want one like this in St. Louis click HERE for the Isadore Shank home that is on the market in Westwood Country Club Grounds.

 

 

A Single Man

Yesterday I saw Tom Ford's A Single Man. This is a elegant film set in 1962. You will love the sets, costumes and scenery.  The main character even lives in a a Bernoudy-like house in LA.  This is a powerful movie and I encourage you to see it.  Playing at Plaza Frontenac and The Chase.

Quinta Maria Cortez Guest House- Puerto Vallerta

Well I am back to reality and what looks like dreary weather in St. Louis.  At least it is not freezing cold.  I am always happy when January comes to an end.  February is a short month and March brings the emergence of Spring. Here are some last pics of the fabulous place we stayed at in Puerto Vallerta- Quinta Maria Cortez.  I almost hate to give the name out, for it will become too popular and harder to get a room.

 

Lambert Airport Siegfried Reinhardt mural

It is unfortunate that the History of Aviation mural at Lambert airport is still covered. Instead of the interesting mural, now it is just a black space. I think there is promotional info in the space once in a while, though it seems to be empty everytime I am there.

Red Cabbage Restaurant- Puerto Vallerta

Last night we made it to a delightful restaurant in the outskirts of Puerto Vallerta called Red Cabbage.  This restaurant is famous for their authentic Mexican dishes. I have heard about mole sauce and had some "low-rent" versions, though after my Pollo Mole Poblano last night I know what the fuss is about....yummy....perfect!

Red Cabbage is also famous for this dish...Chiles En Nogada

 

 
  
  

A Dinner Party in Puerto Vallerta

Yesterday evening our group decided to stay-in and make dinner ourselves.  We visited the local market and whipped up a feast!

 

 
 
  
  

Mango Salsa with Sweet Potato and Plantain Chips

I love the colors of this dish that I enjoyed on the beach yesterday.  I think I could duplicate the salsa, though the fresh chips may be hard.

Quinta Maria Cortez- Puerto Vallerta

This week I am escaping to Mexico for a little get-a-way.  I am staying with a group of friends in an enchanting B & B.  The Quinta Maria Cortez was a private residence built by a 1920s B movie star.  More pics to come!

 

 

  
 

Oyster Brie Soup

Busch's Grove has the yummiest Oyster Brie soup.  You have to go by and try some...though it is often sold out.  If you want to try it at home, try this recipe from Cooks.com.  I think Busch's Grove has artichoke in theirs and blends it so the oysters are not whole.

OYSTER AND BRIE SOUP

3 dozen oysters in their liquor 4 c. cold water 1 c. unsalted butter 1/2 c. flour 1 c. coarsely chopped onion 1/2 c. coarsely chopped celery 1 tsp. white pepper 1/2 tsp. cayenne 1 lb. brie, cut up, rind on 2 c. whipping cream Combine oysters and water, stir and refrigerate at least 1 hour. When ready to use, strain and reserve oysters and water. In large skillet, melt butter. Add flour and whisk until smooth. Add onions and celery; saute 3 minutes. Add peppers; saute 2 minutes more; set aside. In 4 quart pan, boil oyster water; stir in vegetable mixture. With heat high, add cheese, cook until cheese starts to melt, about 2 minutes. Lower heat; simmer 4 minutes, stirring constantly. Strain soup and return to pot. Turn heat to high for 1 minute, stir constantly. Stir in cream, cook close to boil for 2 minutes. Turn off heat, add oysters. Let oysters plump for 3 minutes. Serve immediately.

2010 Boogie Ball- featuring Rick Springfield

The "Must Attend" party of the season this year is The Boogie Ball featuring Cyndi Lauper RickSpringfield...Cyndi's vocal chores are damaged. The event is Friday, February 12 @ 7 PM benefiting the American Liver Foundation.  Find out more HERE.

Bel Air Motel and Trader Vic's

I think Mad Men has made me nostalgic for the 60's, though I really was a child of the 70's.  I do remember going to Trader Vic's downtown in the Bel Air Hotel.  I think my last visit to a Trader Vic's was in college in Chicago in the 80's.  A remnant still around from the tropical fad of the 60's is the India Palace near the airport.  Does anyone know what restaurant was there originally?  Does anyone remember the Tropic Shop on Clayton Rd that sold rattan furniture?

I did not realize that the Bel Air Hotel downtown was so smashing...I just remember a tired building. All pics pulled from the blog, Vanishing St. Louis.

 

 

India Palace - near the airport

Wet Paint Opening Saturday @ Phd Gallery

WET PAINT

Oil Paintings by
Susan Sullivan

January 16  - February 27, 2010

PhD Gallery

OPENING NIGHT RECEPTION
Saturday, January 16, 2010

7:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m.

http://www.phdstl.com/wet_paint.html

 

Medart's

I am not old enough to have gone to Medart's, though I remember my parents talking about it.  Well this is a ramble of a lot of thoughts....I love Mad Men and am catching up from the beginning.  Things were different in the 50's and 60's....food at restaurants was simpler....steak, shrimp, salads, oysters.  I found this old recipe book (published in 1954) at an estate sale and the only St. Louis place in it was Medart's. For you youngsters or non-St. Louis natives, Medart's is now the Cheshire Inn on Clayton Rd.

Winter Garden

Winter does not need to be a bleak time in the garden.  I sometimes like the break winter gives you from pulling weeds, watering, mowing and pruning.  When planning on your Spring landscaping projects, think of plants that look good in the winter: evergreens, red-twigged specimens, seed pods, grasses and bamboos. Here are some scenes from my garden this morning.

(Coral Bark Japanese Maple)

 

(Silver Sedum)

(Yellow-grove Bamboo)

 

(Oat Grass)

Keith Jacobshagen @ The Atrium Gallery....Opening This Friday

KEITH JACOBSHAGEN

"Afternoons and Evenings"

January 15 - March 7, 2010

"Scouting the Platte River," 2009                                                                                                   oil on paper, 8" x 28"

Atrium Gallery announces an upcoming exhibition of new work by national artist KEITH JACOBSHAGEN.  Known for his exceptional depictions of the midwest landscape, Jacobshagen presents his characteristic subject with all of the mystery and epic emotions he encounters with the land and scenes he loves so much.
Originally from Kansas, and now living in Nebraska for many years, he manages a freshness and contemporary approach to these minimalist iconic scenes.

Please join us for the Opening Reception for the artist
Friday, January 15, 6-8 p.m.

Carolyn Miles, Director
4728 McPherson Ave. St. Louis, MO 63108
P: 314-367-1076

4153 Washington Blvd.

New construction just finished on the edge of the popular Gas Light Square area.  Hardwood floors in the Dining Room, Living Room and Master Bedroom.  The kitchen has custom cabinets and a ceramic tile floor.  3 bedrooms.  2.5 baths.  Only $199,000

 

Hidden Valley Ranch's- Sausage Stars

If you want people to gobble up your next appetizers with gusto, try these diet busters!  My friend Donna's mother makes them every year for her Christmas Party...she did not have one this year, so I had to make them myself. I served them last night for a pre-Lady Gaga b-day party for artist, Charlie Houska. There was nothing left.

I was a little in a rush and just served the filling in a bowl with chips to dip.  The recipe was copied from HERE.

Ingredients

• 1 lb cooked crumbled sausage meat, casings removed (2 cups cooked)(Try the Bob Evans Sage)
• 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 1/2 cups monterey jack cheese
• 1 cup hidden valley original ranch salad dressing, prepared from mix(I used the bottle.)
• 1 (2 1/4 ounce) can sliced black olives
• 1/2 cup chopped sweet red pepper
• (I added 1 medium chopped yellow onion)
• (I also added some hot sauce to give it a kick)
• 1 (60 count) package wonton wrappers
• vegetable oil

Directions

1. 1

   Heat oven to 350 degrees F.

2. 2

   combine drained cooked sausage meat with the cheeses, salad dressing, olives and red pepper Lightly oil mini muffin tins and press a wrap in each tine so there are 4 wings sticking out Brush with oil bake 5 minutes until golden, remove wraps from pan, place on a baking sheet Fill wraps with the sausage, cheese mixture bake for 5 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly& brown.

Lady Gaga

I so rarely go to a concert, though last night I saw Lady Gaga at The Fox.  She was fabulous.  The dancing was extravagant, the crowd dynamic....and the speakers were loud.  My ears are still ringing this morning.  Lady Gaga is a real talent who will just get better and better.  I just hope she keeps coming to see her fans in St. Louis!

 

Vital Voice Magazine Relaunch Party

Last night I attended the Vital Voice magazine relaunch party held at Sol Nightclub in the CWE.  Darin Slyman is the new publisher.

(Pictured in the photo- Steve Lange, Stephanie Oliver, Kelly Hamilton, editor of ALIVE magazine, and artist, Jeff Kapfer)

5921 De Giverville

I think that De Giverville is a hidden secret in the CWE area. Located close to Forest Park, U City Loop, Washington University and the Metrolink...this neighborhood in DeBaliviere is where you want to be.  This house is a complete renovation with everything new....kitchen with black granite counters, new windows, flooring, baths and systems.  5 bedroom and 3.5 baths.....only $269,900!

 

 

 

Paperwhites and Alcohol

Paperwhites and Alcohol sounds like a title of a great book, though it is a winter gardening secret.  These are my paperwhites that I started Christmas Eve....they are almost blooming!  So that you do not have paperwhites that get too tall and lanky, make 5% of their water clear alcohol.  I used gin since I like my vodka too much.

8768 West Kingsbury

This 1949 ranch home is located close to everything- Clayton, Ladue, The Galleria, Schnuck's, the airport and has easy access to 170.  U City, though with a 63124 zip code.  The bedrooms each have cool corner windows.  Newer kitchen, 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths.  Yours for only $269,000. Open this Sunday from 1-3 PM.

 

 

3829 Humphrey

Located in popular Tower Grove South, this charming home is within walking distance to Grand Avenue and Tower Grove Park....hey you can also walk to Black Thorn Pizza....who needs a car with this home!  Completely renovated....4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2,400 sq ft and granite counter.....all for only $199,000.

 

 

Old Sign- CWE

I love this old sign on the Northern side of the CWE.  It reminds you of the carriage trade.

Sabering a Bottle of Champagne

Funny Cartoon

The Pioneer Woman Blog

My sister-in-law just turned me on to a new blog, The Pioneer Woman.  This sophisticated city girl moved out west to be with her cowboy. Her blog covers cooking, cowboy-life, home-schooling and much more.  I liked her recipe for Brie-stuffed Mushrooms.