Nottingham & Locke in St. Louis Hills
South St. Louis, MO
It’s the Sybill of apartment buildings.
The St. Louis Hills website says of it:
On Nottingham Avenue, closer to Francis Park, is one of the Hills’ architectural landmarks, the Vedder apartment building. Rich in art deco details it boasts curved corners, casement and circular windows, and complicated brick works. What makes it particularly special is that all six units have penthouses.
What’s also special is that everyone who lives there appears to be creative and/or artistic (as witnessed by what shows in their windows), and the place is in immaculate shape (save for the front yard fountain remaining dry).
From this view, it’s a ship.
From this view it’s a castle.
The fountain gives it a public park feel.
Depending which angle it’s viewed from, it’s 1930’s Streamline Deco or Middle Ages German fortress.
And because I’m merely a human of a certain age, I always think of Pearl Jam’s Eddie Vedder when I see the terra cotta nameplate. That part is against my will – I’m not a fan. But this place is certainly the most unique building in St. Louis Hills.
Unfortunately the fountain has been removed. This building belonged to my family at one time.
Thank you for highlighting buildings such as the Vedder. I’m always curious when i drive through certain South Saint Louis neighborhoods how some of these concoctions came to be.
Great photos, as usual, Toby. Sorry ’bout the ‘Vedder’ name. Perhaps they can rename it ‘Cobain’ or . . . maybe simply ‘Cher’. Whatcha think?
I agree with Michael, this is one of my favorites too. It works so well on the site and the detailing is great. – Steve
I just came across this website, and I am enthralled. The photos are excellent, and I enjoy reading what you have to say.
The Vedder is one of my favorite apartment buildings in St. Louis. It genuinedly deserves the adjective “swanky.”
I have wondered whether the fountain will ever be restored — I don’t think it’s been in use for at least five years.