Ted Wight's St. Louis Style

Annual FLWHEP Birthday Party: A Tribute to William Adair Bernoudy

The last two days I have been diligently working on my mother's house which will be part of the Bernoudy house tour Sunday.  There may still be an opportunity to get on the tour and attend the party after-wards.  Donations start at $125.

Date: Sunday, June 6, 2010
Time: 1-3 p.m. — Tour of Bernoudy houses
         3-5 p.m. — Birthday party at the Bry House, designed by Bernoudy
 
This annual benefit to support the programs and projects of the Frank Lloyd Wright House in Ebswoth Park is dedicated to William Adair Bernoudy, an apprentice of Frank Lloyd Wright who was one of St. Louis’ most admired architects.
 
In addition to tours of several homes designed by Bernoudy, this celebration will include a musicale by the much-honored Carolbeth Trio and singer Debby Lennon featuring Bernoudy’s favorite songs by George Gershwin and Cole Porter.
 
There will also be an auction for a week’s stay at the only home Bernoudy designed outside the United States. It is located on Tortola, an island in the Caribbean known for its beauty and sailing. Click for auction details and absentee bid form.
 
To receive an invitation, please e-mail info@ebsworthpark.org with your name and mailing address.
 
 
The Frank Lloyd Wright House in Ebsworth Park
   House Address: 120 North Ballas Road — Kirkwood, Missouri 63122
   Mailing Address: 40 Upper Ladue Road — St. Louis, Missouri 63124
314-822-8359 — info@ebsworthpark.org

41 Washington Terrace, CWE

I was driving down Washington Terrace this morning and noticed the fine house at 41 Washington Terrace.  It thought is was unique in its design and seemed sort of Frank Lloyd Wrightish.  Coming home I looked in the book, Architecture of the Private Streets of St. Louis, written by Charles Savage.  He states:

"Washington Terrace can boast of two of the rare private place commissions of Isaac Taylor's firm. Taylor was fortunate in securing his designer Oscar Enders, who had been working in Chicago and was also aware of the new Austrian ideas. The Chauncey Ladd house, 1905, at No. 41 is unique in St. Louis; its three-story facade suggests the affinities between the Sezession and the Chicago Prairie School."

Crepes:etc., Maryland Plaza, CWE

This morning I had breakfast at Crepes:etc. in the CWE.  Try the Cheese Pancakes....made with ricotta...yummy!

Equestrian Estate- Wildwood, MO

For you horse lovers who want a manageable farm that is not far from St. Louis, this Wildwood estate sounds ideal! 

"FABULOUS EQUESTRIAN ESTATE!!!Elegant home, almost 5000 sq ft of fin. space, w/ all the upgrades on 14+ ACS, fully fenced for horses, 3 SEP. PASTURES & TRAILS, private cul-de-sac location in a 4 lot subdivision. 36X48 4 STALL BARN w/ INSULATED tack rm,wash bay,workbench,HOT&COLD water,elec,phone,48'lean to for equip.,small pond,lrg turnaround. Totally fenced w/ Bayco wire & elec. ROCKWOOD SCHOOLS.Park Trails nearby."  $869,900

Listed by Scott Peterson and Karen Burns, Tom Shaw Realtors, 636-532-1922

 

 

Ice Crusher

I finally found out what this contraption was that I saw in a mid-century house.....an ice crusher!  I thought it was a pencil sharpener.  You put ice in and grind it....then remove the cup beneath.

3 Sleepy Hollow, Olivette

This is an exceptional custom-built home located in the Ladue School District.  Situated on a small, quiet street on almost a half acre level lot with complete privacy in the backyard.  The handsome front of this 5 year old house is built using a combination of brick and stone. Upon entering the 2-story foyer, you know that this is an ideal home. The kitchen is ideal for the gourmet chef in the family:  high-end stainless steel appliances, granite counters, breakfast bar, center island, designer tile backsplash and a Dacor 36 gas cooktop with a chimney hood.  A large breakfast room with a hearth room makes this a perfect place for your family to hang out. The great room is stunning with tons of windows that look out onto trees and a gas fireplace.  The formal Dining Room has a stylish coved ceiling.  You will love the large main-floor laundry room and the separate mud room.  Two 1st floor powder rooms. The 1st floor Master Bedroom Suite is the perfect retreat.  Two, large walk-in closets with organizers.  The Master Bath has a separate shower with tile surround and a whirlpool tub.  Custom cabinets and granite counters. 3 additional bedrooms are on the second floor.  One has a private bath and the others share a Jack & Jill bathroom.  3 zones HVAC.  Lennox high-efficiency furnaces. Two 50-gallon hot water heaters.  Oversized 3 car side-entry garage. Enormous unfinished basement with 9’ ceilings.  $925,000

Listed by Ted Wight, Dielmann Sothebys International Realty, 314-607-5555

A Day at the Farm

On Easter night a horrible golf-ball sized hail storm came through our farm.  It shattered all of the windows on the West side of the houses.  It was so intense that it blew out the screens, storm windows and regular windows.  They are now boarded up and the house is so dark inside.  Things don't move quickly in the country and I think we are finally getting them replaced in the next couple of weeks.  I went out today to finish cleaning up the glass and mopped the floors.  Of course I got some gardening in and planted three kinds of zinnias!

This is the smoke house.  See my overgrown bamboo on the left....it is a pretty chartreuse green, though I out-of-hand.  I used to have Boston Ivy covering most of it, though the hail ripped it off.

 

Canterbury Bells

When a house was being torn down in my neighborhood I quickly went over to save some of the plants in the garden.  These are some of my finds.  I think they are Canterbury Bells, though someone correct me if I am wrong.

Stunning Former Bootlegger Pad For Sale- Soulard, 1724 S 8th Street

This is one of the most unique and fun properties in the city!

"From a whiskey warehouse w/ 2nd floor apartments added later, to a social club during prohibition, to a home w/ an interior stream & garden, to the incredible Soulard residence of today, this is a must see. Stunning diagonal hardwood floors, soaring ceilings, massive wood posts & beams, floor to roof light shaft & exposed brick define the 1st floor. A circular stairs leads to a mezzanine w/ hardwood floors & full bath, while an open stairs leads to the carpeted 2nd floor where 3 bedrooms, 2 sitting areas & 3 baths surround the light shaft. Tucked under the mezzanine is the gourmet kitchen w/ dark mahogany cabinetry, concrete counters, high end appliances & a walk-in pantry. A utility room w/ bath & wine room opens to the yard w/ heated pool & patio. The master features a walk-in closet, laundry room & contemporary bath w/ whirlpool, separate shower & distinctive, aqua, Italian glass tile throughout. Entertain on the roof top deck where one can almost touch the arch!"

Listed by Susan Feinberg, Daniel B. Feinberg Real Estate Co, 314-721-5600

 

 

507 Mapleview, University City

Built in 1937, this international-styled house is unique and rare. In the 90's a second story was added to the home and it was completely renovated. 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

Listed by Ted Wight, Dielmann Sothebys International Realty, 314-607-5555

 

 

 

Western Lamps

I saw these cool lamps in Architectural Digest recently.  I think they could be used in a contemporary home and be quite fun.

Morning Garden Pics

Finally the sun has emerged and I can start thinking about gardening again.  The roses are beautiful this year!  The pictures are from my U City garden.

 

 

 

10 Washington Terrace- For Sale!

The description of 10 Washington Terrace I am pulling from the Charles C. Savage book- Architecture of the Private Streets of St. Louis:

"The J.L. LaPrelle house, 1896, at No. 10 was designed by H.F. Roach.  It is built of white limestone both dressed and rough-cut in the Romanesque style of Harvey Ellis, complimenting his spired gatehouse at the eastern end of the street. Unfortunately the conical roof atop the projecting bow has been removed."

Here is a further description:

"This remarkable home has been lovingly restored and preserved by the current owners to its original magnificent glory. You will be amazed at the hand crafted details in this masterpiece created by true artists of the time. The fine craftsmanship is evident the moment you enter this grand home. Upon entering the vestibule you will find breathtaking onyx covered walls and Italian marble statues. From the exquisite main hall, paneled in exotic Satinwood, to the nine ornately carved fireplace mantels; from the massive staircase with double spindle banisters to the stained glass windows in the landing, this home will amaze you. The kitchen, while maintaining the original feel, has been updated with the addition of a French Lacanche range and Fisher/Paykel dishwasher. If you appreciate history, elegance and craftsmanship this could be your next home."

This exceptional house is on the market for $1.65 million.  Listed by Vicki Armor, Dielmann Sotheby's International Realty, 314-725-0009

 

7500 York Ave, Clayton....stunning condo

Check out this 4 yo condo building that fits in so well with the historic Clayton architecture, though is new and modern on the interior.

This knockout 4 year old, 4 bedroom 4 full and two half bath condo in the heart of Clayton has much to offer. Incredible detail throughout from the Brazilian cherry floors to the triple-crown moldings; you'll know you've arrived. The center island kitchen with its Viking appliances, custom cabinets, and granite counters is a chef's dream and adjoins the breakfast room and great room. The dining room has a vaulted ceiling, palladium windows and a beautiful white oak hearing bone floor. There is a main level master with 2 walk-in closets, sitting room and luxury bath. The office/loft features beautiful cherry bookcases and a lovely balcony. Upstairs there are three additional bedrooms each with a private bath. On the lower level there is a rec room and another half bath. Additional features include an elevator, three-car garage, central vac, top of the line fixtures and hardware, large balcony/deck off the great room, main level laundry, and the home is wired for sound.  $1,495,000

Listed by Stephanie Oliver and Steve Lange, Dielmann Sothebys International Realty, 314-725-0009

 

 

 

 

Muny Prop Room

Last night I went to a fun party held at the Muny. We were able to sneak into the underbelly of the stage where the prop room is located.

 

 

 

Recipes from Al Baker's

If you are in your 40s or older, you have been to or heard about Al Baker's.  Once located on the land where the shuttered Linens and Things is near the Galleria.  It was the swinging place to go and be seen!

Here are some recipes you can  try at home to bring back memories!

An Arty Weekend! Fun Openings Friday and Saturday Nights

PHD Gallery, 2300 Cherokee Street



HELLO MODERN ART
Miniature Modern Masterworks
May 8 - June 12, 2010

Opening Night Reception
Saturday, May 15, 2010
7:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m.
more information

Hoffman LaChance Gallery, 2713 Sutton Blvd, Maplewood

Christopher Paquet

Opening reception friday May 14th 6pm - 10pm

New Listing- 6551 Pernod, Lindenwood Heights Neighborhood, Open Sun., May 16th 1-3 PM

This is a rare find in the Lindenwood Heights area- a fine home with 4 bedrooms and 2 full baths. Updated kitchen with granite countertops, new floor, appliances and lighting. Renovated sunroom/ breakfast room off of the kitchen.  Gracious Living Room with gas fireplace. Original art glass windows and unpainted wood trim.  New bathroom with dual vanities in the upper level. Three skylights are also on the second floor. New architectural windows.  This home has been updated with a focus on making it maintenance-free: newer systems, completely tuck pointed, aluminum-capped fascia, updated 200 Amp service, newer roof and much more.  A great home to entertain guests and family.  Wonderful stone patio surrounded by custom fencing- ideal for entertaining. Oversized 2 car garage. Close to Ted Drewes, Hampton Village, Lindenwood Park and even around the corner from everyone’s favorite- Trattoria Marcella!  Great schools are also close-by- St. Joan of Arc School and Union United Methodist Church’s Pre-school.  $279,000

Listed by Ted Wight, Dielmann Sotheby International Realty, 314-607-5555

 

 

 

Bamboo

I love the various bamboos that I have in my garden here in town and out at our farm.  The problem is that all of the varieties that I have are spreading and not clumping.  Even though I have barriers in the ground to keep it from spreading too far....it still escapes. 

North City Home

Earlier this year when I was visiting Calvary Cemetery, I drove by this charming home on a street near Calvary.  Unfortunately there are blocks and blocks of historic homes and buildings in a similar state in North City.  

Vitrolite Kitchen

I saw the most stunning Virtrolite kitchen in a house near Forest Park over the weekend.  Look....the ceiling is even Virtrolite tiles.

 

 

Look...even the first floor powder room is a Virtrolite masterpiece...check out the deco mirror.

 

Ok....I am also bonkers for door knobs...this one makes me green with envy!

Happy Mother's Day!

Here is a picture of me and my mom during her horsey phase in the 70s.  Tonight I am taking her to hear Denise Thimes at The Sheldon.

BJC Butterfly Project

Today I helped local artist Charlie Houska pick up his butterfly to paint for BJC's Butterfly project.  Read more about it HERE. 

(Butterflies waiting for their artist to pick them up.)

 

(And Charlie Houska's butterfly which has landed in his Tower Grove studio.)

2 Sleepy Hollow, Olivette, Ladue Schools....Open Sunday, May 9th 1-3 PM

You know the best way to show your appreciation for your wife, partner or special someone would be to buy this great mid-century ranch home in Olivette.  The spacious home has four bedrooms and two full baths on the main level.  The house has been meticulously cared for and updated. The basement is finished with a full bath and two more bedrooms/workout rooms/offices off of the main recreational area.  All this and a large level lawn all for $425,000. 

Listed by Ted Wight, Dielmann Sothebys International Realty, 314-607-5555

 

Bad Realtor Photography

Here is a another series of questionable photos that realtors use to sell property.

A smoke-filled basement.

This Webster home looks like they have a log flute right onto a concrete pad....though I know it is a pool cover.

Same home....I can not figure out what is going on in this room...are their card board boxes laid out flat near the bed?  A poly chintz bedspread coupled with modern chairs. What is on the right side of the picture...weight equipment?

Here is a condo development in Clayton- this picture highlights the courtyard...is it me or is this just unattractive?

Reader Wendy sent me this picture this morning!  Oversized furniture in a small room...and is it just me or do you think it is hard getting in the front door and around that massive couch?

Baptisia- Yellow False Indigo

I just love my Yellow Baptisia in my garden. Not many of the other perennials have started to think about putting on a show, though this one certainly is not waiting for anything.  Baptisia is related to the pea family.

For Those With Limited Space to Garden

More Photos From The Harris Armstrong House Tour

This is the second part of my photo collection taken on Sunday of some of the Harris Armstrong houses that were on tour.  They are all in a couple of neighboring enclaves in Oakland off of Sappington.

(The house below was Harris Armstrong's studio that he built for himself below his main house. There has been a significant addition put on the back that is not a Harris Armstrong design.)

 

   

Below is the house that Harris Armstrong lived in that sits up a hill and though some woods from the studio pictured above.  My iPhone pic does not do it justice. Check out this LINK for more pics.  It is currently for sale for $800,000. Listed by Mary Schwabee, Prudential Alliance Realtors, 314-821-9290.

Harris Armstrong Tour Pics

Yesterday was the Harris Armstrong House tour.  Four of his houses in Oakland were featured.  The attendance was great and the weather held out.  Here are some pics of one of the important homes that were featured.  Of course, I brought my camera, though left the battery in the charger.  These are from my i-Phone. More coming tomorrow!

 

 

 

 

Morning Garden Pics by Jack!

This mornings garden pics are by my nephew, Jack.  He wants to be a blogger and photographer and this is his first step.  We just finished making Red Velvet cake for a birthday party tonight.  This is why he has a little red splotch on his face.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

House Portraits

Stephen Walker is a local artist who is an ideal resource if you want a portrait of your lovely home.  Check out these fine places that he has painted in the area.

 

 

Harris Armstrong House Tour- This Sunday, 2-5 PM

See knobs that make it an event to open a door!

See ceilings that are celestial!