Arcturis architectural firm has earned a Design STL Architect & Designers award for its showroom project at Adam Foster Fine Jewelry, located at 601 S Lindbergh Blvd. in St. Louis, Mo.
A multi-disciplinary studio of architects, graphic designers, interior designers, landscape architects, planners and strategists, Arcturis is one of two recipients who earned an award.
The other award went to SPACE Architecture for their design in the High Low, the Kranzberg Arts Foundation’s literary arts cafe at 3301 Washington Ave, and will be highlighted in next week’s edition of MWM STL.
“We were trying to create an experience. You step off the elevator and there is a totally unexpected scene in ‘modern Gothic luxury,’ which is how Adam Foster likes to design his jewelry. He wanted the space to be beautiful but impressive, so there’s a lot of black. We created a space that is dynamic, yet effective in showing items,” said Chrissy Hill Rogers, AIA, LEED AP, director of architecture at Arcturis.
Arcturis provided architecture, interior design, lighting design and casework design. The project encompasses about 3,700 SF of studio, office and showroom space on the third floor of the former Fur Center on Lindbergh Blvd.
Challenges included meeting specific requirements for equipment to be compliant with building codes for safety and function, such as the safes needed to protect the jewelry and other items involved in a jewelry business.
“We had to be nimble,” Rogers said.
Arturis worked with Frontenac Engineering for the structural aspects of designing and integrated a skylight as a unique element of the project.
“We also created a ‘cabinet of curiosity’ to feature interesting things - such as a stuffed peacock - as a focal point,” Rogers said.
According to the project award description, “this retail space is meant to provide an experience in a minimal yet dramatic environment where the client’s distinctive jewelry line is the main attraction. The finishes, lighting and casework details are informed by the look of modern Gothic luxury. Upon entering the showroom, guests are welcomed into a dimly lit black-painted room with a single display case that holds a handsome taxidermy peacock. Inside, the glow of natural light from a large skylight and glass exterior wall illuminates the spacious room. Fitted with a bar, dining table, indoor lounge, and outdoor patio, the showroom is designed to double as an event space.”
Contractors involved with the award-winning project include custom millwork fabrication by Ross Wardenburg; furniture selection by Castle Design; showroom general contractor, ISC Construction; and studio general contractor, James T. Wohlert/DiMartino Homes LLC/Wohlert Company LLC.
Arcturis (www.arcturis.com) moved to a new office space in January 2021 at 701 Market Street, Suite 1300 in St. Louis, Mo. The firm also has offices in Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas.