St. Louis GLUEsters Show Some Love

On Valentine’s Day, historic preservation minded St. Louis residents came out for a “Love-In” at the former San Luis apartments, designed by modernist Charles Colbert, FAIA.  The unique, mid-century building is owned by the Archdiocese of St. Louis, and slated for demolition (it will be replaced by a parking lot).  Dedicated both to the preservation of modern classics and to the concept that vast parking lots destroy urban fabric, this group of demonstrators celebrated the San Luis in style.

You can find their press coverage, background, and some videos from the event (I encourage you to watch them for some inspiration–demonstrations can be creative and fun!) at Save the San Luis.  GLUEster Jeff Vines shared this love poem he wrote to the building.  All of our cities could use a little Valentine’s love; thanks STL for showing us how it’s done!

It’s Valentine’s Day and we have a flame to rekindle
So that’s why we’ve gathered here at Taylor & Lindell

She’s the space-age beauty of the CWE
That tall sexy building called the San Luis

She’s got style, she’s got wit
And a wraparound driveway that just won’t quit

Modern, sleek, and contemporary
She wasn’t built to be temporary

Her retro flair enhances our urban fabric
Like John McCain, she’s quite the maverick!

Since 1963, she has brightened our day
But the Archdiocese thinks she’s just in the way

“It’s a crappy old building”, say some, “Tear it down”
“It’s a pain in the ass to park my car in this town”

Clearly these people lack sophistication
They fail to imagine her grand restoration

With just a little love, she’d be luxurious
A surface parking lot? Uh uh, you surrrious?

It’s time for some divine intervention
To spread the gospel of parking lot prevention

If you’re too lazy to walk, then move out to Wentzville
And keep your hands off of our Hotel DeVille

This building is cool– we won’t let it fall
She’s our Cinderella, and she’ll be at the ball!

Photo by Toby Weiss, from Save the San Luis blog.