Dolores and Gene Hoefel moved from Chicago to St. Louis in August, 1974. They brought antiques, artwork and three children to one of the oldest threestory homes in the neighborhood.
Architecturally, it is one of the few examples of “star and bar” construction common to Lafayette Square and Soulard houses. Iron “stars” visible on the exterior walls of the house fix an iron bar which runs the width of the house, in place. The bars support the exterior walls of the house, and the stars are visible on the East and West walls.
The Hoefel’s complete renovation began in the basement with all new systems of electrical, plumbing and heating, and worked through four fireplaces, a 2nd story greenhouse constructed with old storm windows, to a new roof. Gene, an artist who teaches in the School of Fine Arts at Washington University, converted the double garage into a skylit studio which is included on the tour.
Woodwork was stripped throughout and brick exposed to lend a soft, glowing atmosphere and Dolores’ ability to nurture greenery is abundantly obvious. Plants are everywhere, including the patio which is also newly installed.
The kitchen contains many modern conveniences while maintaining a vintage character.
The kitchen cabinets were constructed from beaded wood to match a large, antique cupboard they found and brought from Wisconsin.
With particular ingenuity, the back stairs were converted into 3 useful spaces, a half-bath of unusual attraction, a canned goods closet, and a coat closet on the landing between the first and second floors. The master bedroom was created from 2 smaller rooms through the addition of a beam where the wall was removed. It houses the central air conditioning and heating unit for the 2nd and 3rd floors and opens onto a 2nd story greenhouse.
Bathroom tiles on the 2nd floor are from Mexico and the marble facing is original.
The 3rd floor was totally remodeled into 2 airy spaces and a full bath and sauna room (the steam awaits further funding) for the oldest boys and features built-in trundle beds and storage areas.
The Hoefels, working with neighborhood contractor Joe Mensing, have brought features, common in many area homes to well-designed and beautifully detailed life with their imaginative renovation.
Originally published in The Paper, May 1975.
Read this article in the original newspaper issue.
Original source: SD_Times1975_05.pdf, printed page(s) 6; PDF page(s) 6.
