St. Louis – Clayco Inc. was recently recognized by the Design-Build Institute of America Mid-America Region for its innovative work on the Ely Walker Lofts in St. Louis. The project received the coveted Design-Build Award for its exceptional restoration and renovation of the turn-of-the-century dry goods warehouse.
The warehouse at 1520 Washington Ave. was originally constructed in 1907. Clayco converted the empty building into the “Ely Walker Lofts” – 174-unit condos, retail space and an underground parking garage. Renovations also included amenities such as a lounge, fitness center and lobby.
The most impressive feature of the new residence is the six-story atrium beginning at the second level of the building and extending through the roof of the building, culminating in two large skylights.
To maintain Ely Walker Lofts' listing on the National Register of Historic Places, architect Forum Studio and Clayco worked closely with the National Park Service and the city of St. Louis to ensure the design and subsequent construction met requirements to maintain the building's historic status.
