This week's building spotlight celebrates the Chemical Building in Downtown St. Louis.
The 16-story Chemical Building, at 777 Olive Street in Downtown St. Louis, stands as an architectural testament to St. Louis' rich history and innovation. Designed by esteemed architect Henry Ives Cobb, construction of this red brick and terra cotta structure commenced in 1896 and an addition was added in the early 1900s. The Chemical Building was a significant addition to the cityscape, becoming one of the tallest in the city.
To the left, a close-up detail sketch depicting where the red terra cotta bay windows meet the double-level storefront at the corner of Olive and 8th Street.
Constructed during a period of economic expansion in St. Louis, the Chemical Building mirrored the city's thriving prosperity in the 1890s. Architecturally, it is renowned for its repetitive bay window forms, offering facade variation and expanded views. Built primarily with steel and terra cotta, the Chemical Building epitomized the Beaux-Arts architectural style, characterized by ornate detailing and classical elements. The grandeur of its design symbolized the confidence and ambition of St. Louis during the late 19th century, drawing parallels with the Tacoma Building in Chicago.
Planned Building Revitalization
Looking ahead, there are ambitious plans for the revitalization of the Chemical Building. Today, these plans include transforming it into a dual-branded Marriott hotel. In the context of the city's ongoing revitalization efforts, the Chemical Building holds significant promise. Future initiatives aim at further adaptive reuse projects that leverage Downtown's building stock while meeting the needs of a dynamic urban environment.