Many people have weighed in on this post since yesterday including Alderman Lyda Krewson, who added her thoughts in the "comment" section below. She suggested that anyone who is interested can read more about the Preservation Board Review through the following link (scroll down to page 45):
http://stlouis-mo.gov/government/departments/planning/cultural-resources/documents/upload//Preservation-Board-Final-Agenda-27-September-2010.pdf
There are those in the neighborhood who are thrilled that Lester's is opening on Maryland Avenue, just east of Euclid. Others wonder how the entry, above, which encroaches on the public sidewalk,
and the unattractive siding on the east side (is this puce?) was installed when it was not what was approved by the Cultural Resources Office of the City of St. Louis. Why bother with a review and approval process for the Historic District if the standards are ignored?
A prominent artist who lives up the block suggested this morning that Lester's supply the paint and we hold a mural design contest for the wall or grow Virginia Creeper on it. When I was at Bowood Farms yesterday Ellen Barredo suggested a "living wall" which would be fabulous. What do you think?
P.S. – Lyda Krewson sent "before" pictures so we could remember what Companion's greenhouse addition looked like, and how it too encroached on the sidewalk, below.
for at least three years I had been advocating separately recycling the glass from the resturants and bars in the CWE and, among other uses, having it available as aggregate (gravel) to mix with concrete for sidewalks, curbs and roads/parking lots…shame the architect didn’t consider green approach that could have made the concrete equally durable yet sparkle with green or blue or brown and clear glass as part of the design…as opposed to predictable gray. The color of the paint hints at Richard Serra’s rust…but clearly misses the mark…again, a greener approach could have included an actual reclaimed sheet of steel perhaps made from a long ago closed foundry, or reclaimed brick or stone from a building torn down in the City…and we all know that color reminds us of…and it’s not exactly what you’d find attractive at a place to eat unless you’d a pig. A mural designed by children of any age from schools in the CWE would be very cool…there are least 10 schools remaining…and having a professional wall artist put up the artwork could be a welcome treat for residents and visitors. Anotehr idea is to create the artwork using a mosiac approach, hinting at the wondrous mosiac at the nearby Cathedral….the mosaic could be created from recycled bottlecaps or corks or other materials typical of what could be recycled from the businesses in the neighborhood…instead of paint, the mosaic would be more eco-responsible….it wouldn’t be hard for CWE businesses to generate enough recyclable materials to create it.
I think it’s a great improvement over what was there before. Some have said the architecture of the original building should have been matched. I disagree. It could never have matched perfectly. The contemporay accent compliments the older architecture and it looks great. Are there a few things I would have done differently? Yes. But all in all I think it is a great addition to the neighborhood.
I’m glad of this rousing public conversation.
I live in the Central West End and frequently passed Lester’s as the building was renovated and now open for business.
My work has centered around community development, and I’ve been a practicing artist for more years than I care to count. Lester’s has grafted a post-modernist addition onto a distinguished historical building of the type that graces our neighborhood.
The most shocking feature of Lester’s addition is the burnt sienna which assaults the eye as one walks or drives up the street. This color is grotesque in contrast to the brick construction with its beautiful ornamentation.
I like the idea of a living wall or a mural. Let’s see what can be done to restore the integrity of this bit of our neighborhood.
Janet Riehl,
Paint it white (not black; like the Rolling Stones suggest) and in my humble opinion; let’s start rallying around the outdoor sitting situation in the CWE; which is clogged, rude and unwalkable.
At the risk of being redundant this is what concerns me the most: “The clothes on this façade, whether you like them or not, have been approved.”
Its that very attitude that has close proximity neighbors worried.
Where is the community involvement – the desire to involve the residents? the neighbor weigh in? To then goes on the challenge people to be involved when that’s exactly what we are asking for is beyond frustrating.
John,
I worked with Laura Locke closely a few years back on several committees for the CWEA. When I tried to become a member or volunteer for the board my requests were lost in the ether. I received ONE newsletter and then all communication was dropped. After dedicating myself and hours and hours of hard work to raise 10k with a trivia night I was feeling a bit let down. The CWEA is a faceless, nameless entity that clearly welds some serious power. Its hard to see you as an org with open doors to the residents here.
I would like to point out that people/neighbors/residents voicing their concerns about what effects their properties and their daily lives is, in fact, ‘getting involved’. To suggest otherwise is insulting to the people that have chosen to live their lives here, invest in our homes and raise our kids here. I am floored by your defensive response.
As for the frustration with Alderwoman Krewson, Lester’s seems only the gateway issue here. Facade, noise and operational issues aside, many of us feel that we were not informed and generally ignored during this process. And yet, asked repeatedly for liquor license approval. We are the ones, ultimately, that keep this nabe alive. To see our daily concerns: safety, alleyway conditions, parking lot problems, sidewalks in disrepair, etc etc not attended to until we make noise about Lester’s is worrying.
As an aside, I think Lester’s new addition to the neighborhood will be tremendous and frankly, their sweet potato fries make the world go round. The ultimate concern is the precedent set by the CWEA and Alderwoman Krewson in HOW Lester’s came to be. With residents feeling so railroaded and ‘the powers that be’ (Krewson and the CWEA) on the defensive I worry no good will come of this.
I’m hopeful John and Lyda can see this as neighbors organizing for the benefit of their interests and community.
Love to see investment in the neighborhood. The modern design has some nice characteristics but it seems they put in too much. The clunky cylinder lights on poles cheapen the look . The yellow/red sign seems out of place.
And I definitely don’t think the sports statue is necessary. It visually competes with the iconic cast iron candelabra.
Overall, the end product is schizophrenic. Not eclectic in a good way.
Now that the scaffolding is down and the trash has been cleared away, Lester’s is looking better to me. The east elevation, especially the color, is still weird but, viewed from the front, the addition is clean and I think emphasizes the ebullience of the original building.
However, I still wish it could be something, almost anything, other than a sports bar.
Patty
Before starting, I want to thank Nicki Dwyer for hosting her blog and providing a platform for this dialogue to take place; what she provides for the neighborhood is of enormous benefit.
I could write at length about the process that we went through with Lee Gregory and the staff of Lester’s, to get what is an outstanding product for the neighborhood. The details of this would likely hold little interest, but the important thing is that we went through same process that applies to all restaurants and businesses that wish to come into the neighborhood, or renovate a building. Drawings were submitted, arguments were presented, hearings were held, limitations were placed, and permits were issued.
Both the CWEA and Cultural Resources approved the project; you may believe this to be a travesty, but that is your opinion – and a highly subjective one at that. I am not a big fan of historic “replica architecture” that is so often inauthentic or poorly executed. There are “modern buildings” which reach back 100 years so the “non-historic” argument does not apply. We could discuss the importance of context at length, but without resolution, as this ultimately comes down to likes and dislikes, which is as individual as the clothes one wears. The clothes on this façade, whether you like them or not, have been approved.
The one limitation which is not subjective, which will be moderated, are issues which involve noise, trash, hours of operation, etc. The CWEA will work closely with Lyda and the neighbors to be sure the ordinances are being followed.
The objection to “Stan” is a bit puzzling, as this type of public sculpture has been installed in numerous locations throughout the neighborhood, with little comment or objection. To be clear, the owner went through the standard process of approval with the CWEA Board, as well as the street department, and there were no objections or concerns; in fact, I would characterize the response as more of an embrace, for what is St. Louis’ strongest local hero.
The criticism against our alderwoman is misdirected at best. I don’t know of another individual who works harder or cares more than Lyda Krewson. She puts in countless hours and repeatedly puts the ideals of the neighborhood above her own. Her ethics are above reproach and to suggest otherwise is shameful.
As president of the CWEA, it worries me when residents don’t know what they are getting – as an organization, I am concerned that we have fallen down on our goals and responsibilities. With extremely limited resources, we do our best to communicate and to be an asset for the neighborhood, so that stakeholders may be informed and weigh in when needed.
I should point out that “when needed” does not mean “when convenient” or “only when it suits me.” If we only hear from you when someone’s cat peed in your sandbox, you are not holding up your end of the bargain. Become a member. Join a committee. Be part of the process and give something back to the community. Then when the next restaurant opens up, you can work with your fellow stakeholders to let them know the issues on the table. The Association is made up of residents who care and want to improve their corner of the neighborhood. We need your help.
Drop me a line at [email protected] or stop by our website http://www.thecwe.org . I want to hear from you on how we can improve things.
I moved a “conventional family” including three kids from Webster Groves to the CWE in 1986. Two of those three are raising their kids in the 28th Ward. The other is raising his family East of Tower Grove Park. My CWE family is estatic about Lester’s. An additional huge draw to our neighborhood. All “boats” will be raised. It’s a tremendous investment in our neighborhood. The space and improvements will challenge other landlords and operators to follow suit. It compliments Mr Sinquefield’s investments and demonstrates leadership and belief in our future. The glass is not half empty folks, it’s more than half full and filling!
Don… you and I have emailed and talked about Lesters on a couple of occasions. There was a public process through the CWE, city public hearings and liquor license process that were all public. I also discussed it several times at the 28th Ward meetings.
I am not the police… but what I did say at the hearing was that “if there are noise problems with the patio, we will solve them”. As you know, Lesters has agreed not to have any amplified music outdoors. Yes you may call me anytime as always! 607 3452 is my cell phone. You should also call SLPD through 911.
I remain committed to working with all of you to resolve issues.
I think that Lisa S’s comment about West County is exactly right! The addition is more appropriate for a west county strip mall than a neighborhood with with historically significant architecture. There is nothing wrong with good contemporary architecture-check out the Pulitzer Foundation, the Contemporary Art Museum, or the new synagogue on Waterman- they are distinctive, functional, and unique. Lester’s is none of those characteristics, and quite frankly I don’t care how “nice” he is, his architect and the planning commission were grossly insensitive to the character of our neighborhood. NNR
People, this is not about the neighborhood coming up with an option to make the poorly designed Lester Patio addition better.
It is really how we were railroaded after the fact! It’s built now and now we have to live with its attitude.
The Landlord, Lester Miller or our Alderwoman Ms. Krewson didn’t really care what we all thought. The signs for a zoning meeting in February were all torn down before anyone knew it was to take place.
All the other restaurants who needed our signatures to get the “deal breaker” liquor licenses felt obliged to personally knock on doors to introduce themselves…not Mr.Miller. As far as I can tell, it is our Alderwoman’s responsibility to make sure all her constituents knew what Lester planned with that space. It was very odd that at a Board of Aldermen hearing ( the lapsed zoning issue ) that I attended with some of our neighbors, when I asked the Project Architect of the Restaurant to see a picture of the Addition design, he said he didn’t have one but our Alderwoman had one on her i-Phone. That’s when my heart sank. I thought about our Neighbor who is responsible for the increasingly beautiful and classy Chess Club and Museum. Somehow, that Person felt a need to respect the architectural integrity of the neighborhood and not manufacture colors that are meant to be brick color but somehow failed miserably. Let Lester fix this problem and let him ingratiate himself to the Neighbors that he will depend on when winter comes and the CWE becomes a “no mans land!”
Also, If my eyes served me right, a Stan the Man, sculpture was placed in front of Lester’s restaurant. Did we know that was to be placed there? Were permits needed from the City? Why is it there? Does Stan Musial have something to do with the restaurant?
In closing, who do we hold accountable for this debacle? Who will take responsibility for the late night noise, late night music, rowdy people, lack of parking, trash pick-up and vandalism? Who do we call? Lester Miller? Ms.Krewson told me and my fellow neighbors that we are to call her! SHE will “police” this!
Sorry for the length of this but this has become a very important subject to me and my wife. We live right diagonally across from Lester’s
Donald Damask
P.S.As an aside, I don’t personally know Mr.Miller but I do know he is a very philanthropic person donating to very important causes internationally that help the poor, the infirm and the sickly.
Let me get this straight, a guy just invested in-excess of $1M in our neighborhood during terrible economic times and people are complaining. Really?
I don’t mind modern design, if done well, it can mingle beautifully with traditional architecture. Unfortunately, this isn’t done well; this addition looks like it belongs in a mall parking lot. Also unfortunately, it’s not tucked away if you live on Maryland Ave., as I do.
I’m also concerned about the second-story open-air patio. I received countless mailings and letters praising Lester Miller as a stand-up guy, etc., etc., as part of Lester’s bid for a liquor license. But not one word about the patio. I don’t mind some noise or the increased traffic; proximity to businesses like this and the general vitality of the area is part of why I moved to this neighborhood. But I’m concerned that this patio will push things too far. Will the patio be open until the 1:30 a.m. closing time? Will the TVs that I can see from my porch have sound? Perhaps it won’t be an issue; if it is, I’ll be contacting Lyda for sure. Either way, I think residents should have been better informed and offered a chance to weigh in on this.
I like the addition. I think it’s better than what was there previously. I welcome the investment in the neighborhood.
Actually, I rather like it. It adds a little modern flavor to complement the Drunken Fish curve but is kind of tucked away. One of the things I learned living in Europe is that living cities have buildings of many styles nestled together. This addition speaks loudly to the continuing vitality of the Central West End. And I for one look forward to having a real sports bar in the nabe so I don’t have to drive to West County to watch games with my friends!
I love the idea of a living wall, but am reserving my opinion until it’s up and running. What about the parking problem (which already exists), now that the lot is designated for monthly parking only?
Thanks for the comments, Lyda. The new construction is absolutely more attractive than the horrible greenhouse that used to be there. I welcome the diversity in the architecture and I welcome the great food and atmosphere of Lester’s, less than a block from my house.
The addition went through the normal approval process, and was reviewed by the CWEA P&D Committee and Cultural Resources. I have asked them if what is built agrees with what they approved. I will encourage them to post their response here.
The CWE district standards do not prevent contemporary design: From the standards… “It is not the intention of these regulations to in any way discourage contemporary design,
Lesters is an experienced and good operator. I expect no less here in the CWE. If there are operational issues, we will solve them.
Just 2 factual comments… the ‘uglier’ greenhouse addition hung on the side of the building in the early 90’s had a raised patio and wall in the same location as this one. This one does not have the 2 steps up to the patio, so that it is accessible.
And finally… to the commenter who states ‘has all the politicians in his pocket’… never met Mr Miller… never taken any contributions from him. It saddens and annoys me that folks play that card so often, even when they have no facts.
Sorry for the lengthy post… Lyda
Well Mr. Miller was allowed to bastardize the Old Busch’s Grove and has all the resources and politicians in his pocket. You can’t even see what the side of that building used to look like. Shame on the people who let this happen!
I agree with each respondent, and wonder how many of our neighbors have seen the PR blurb in a local magazine that described the wonders Lester’s will provide: 32 TV’s and late openings on special sports nights. Reminder: Pershing Place residents were able to stop a relatively tiny sports bar planned for the Golden Grocer building a couple of years ago. Wall color will be the least of our shared problems.
I agree completely with Katie. How did this design (and hideous color) pass a historic review board? Was anyone in the neighborhood consulted during the process? I love the idea of a mural approved by people who live in the neighborhood but I think we have a bigger problem if designs like this one slip by without neighborhood participation in the process.
There is too much concrete! What about decorative tiles. The concrete structure at first looked like a planter box. Is it? Tile it on the outside, Line it on the inside and put in a water feature.
This is a daily topic of conversation on our block. While many are pleased that a business will be occupying that long-vacant space, it appears that this design is universally hated – I can’t imagine who thought the color of that wall would be a good idea. Let alone the fact that the addition as a whole has no relation to the building it’s attached to. Who approved this design? Where is the CWEA on this? Lyda?
The mural contest is a brilliant idea (especially if neighbors could choose the winning design). But it seems fair to require Lester Miller, a man of no small means, to do something to change this.
I hate this addition so much. It breaks my heart the architect wouldn’t take cues from the amazing building it is attached to. Whats with all the concrete?