Project Statement

Verve is a new 8-story housing community located in the heart of Midtown on the edge of the St. Louis University campus. Designed with modern students in mind, energized social spaces ground the building within a varied historical architectural context. The dense architecture deftly weaves multiple materials together to create an appropriately scaled urban building within a simple, timeless aesthetic.

With students now spending more time in their living spaces than ever, it was crucial that an interior design team was deployed and tasked with creating warm and inviting spaces that maintain the project's overall design intent. The result is a Scandinavian-influenced aesthetic, with wood features complementing a muted color palette, and black and white elements seamlessly carrying the design language from the public to private areas. The neutral palette of the apartment units provides an opportunity for residents to personalize their environment and bring their own style to the spaces.

At the heart of the Midtown neighborhood, Verve St. Louis is a quick walk or bike ride away from St. Louis University and other local amenities. Because of this, interior and exterior bike storage was included to support an active lifestyle for residents. The club area allows residents to find community with their neighbors by grabbing a cup of coffee or enjoying the lounge to watch a big game. The use of materiality such as the wood slat ceiling emphasizes the interior/exterior connection from the club area to the courtyard. The courtyard is where residents are offered a place to play and relax while socializing with peers, encouraging the community to spend time outdoors. The club booths provide small group or individual meeting areas to connect with others or study in a more active environment, while the library provides an alternative space to study, gather, reflect, and enjoy views of Midtown St. Louis by use of expansive openings along the main facade. The design concept promotes community by putting the club amenity areas on full display.