The local U.S. Green Building Council, along with the developer, investors, rehabbers, architects and apartment dwellers of Embassy Suites downtown and the adjacent Laurel Apart-ments are hosting a giant open house on July 10. Between 5:30 and 6:15 PM, complimentary PI pizza and beverages will be served. A brief overview of the renovation project follows leading into a guided tour of the entire mixed-use facility from 6:15 to 7:30 PM. Sponsors are Bell Electric, BSI Constructors, Embassy Suites, Pi Pizzeria and Trivers Associates.
To create a more sustainable structure, the project team fortified the building envelope with added insulation, new low-e insulated window glazing and a white roof to improve comfort and reduce the urban heat-island effect. Also addressed were extensive hazardous materials abatements, low-VOC painting, flooring systems, pressurized-corridors exhaust systems and operable windows. A full century of updates in several other sustainable HVAC, insulation, wall framing, plumbing and refrigerant systems also add to the value of these handsome housing units.
Starting life as the Grand Leader Department Store, it was built in two phases in 1906 and 1919. Some St. Louisans may also recall the ownership years by Stix, Baer & Fuller and Dillards.
Now, with 205 residential apartments at The Laurel and 212 Embassy Suites guestrooms, the building’s sheer variety of views and amenities should make it a popular urban space to nest.
The tour requires pre- registration either via USGBC-MOGateway@mobot.org or by calling 314-577-0225. USGBC members and full-time students are free. Non-members pay $20. Use of Metrolink is encouraged, exiting at the Convention Center stop. For car and car pool drivers, enter the St. Louis Parking Garage on 7th at St. Charles. Parking passes at $2/car will be available inside at the event registration table. Cash or credit card will be accepted.