St. Louis Centre was far more than another shopping mall—it was one of the most ambitious urban redevelopment projects undertaken in America during the 1980s. Conceived as the centerpiece of downtown St. Louis’ revival, it represented a partnership between some of the biggest names in retail, architecture, and construction.

The Developers

The project was spearheaded by The May Department Stores Company, whose Famous-Barr flagship occupied the historic Railway Exchange Building. Rather than abandon downtown for the suburbs, May believed the city’s retail heart could be restored.

To make that vision a reality, May partnered with Melvin Simon & Associates, then one of the nation’s leading shopping center developers (now Simon Property Group). Together, they developed a $176 million enclosed urban shopping mall that would connect Famous-Barr with the former Stix, Baer & Fuller building (later Dillard’s), creating what was promoted as the largest enclosed urban shopping center in America.

The Architects

The architectural design was entrusted to RTKL Associates of Baltimore, a nationally recognized firm known for innovative retail and mixed-use developments.

RTKL created a dramatic four-story glass atrium filled with natural light, suspended landscaping, fountains, wide promenades, and glass skybridges spanning Locust and Washington avenues. Their design successfully blended contemporary architecture with two of downtown’s historic department stores, creating an elegant retail environment that felt both modern and uniquely St. Louis.

The Builder

The monumental task of constructing St. Louis Centre was performed by Pepper Construction Company, whose crews faced one of the most challenging building projects in the Midwest.

Unlike a conventional suburban mall, St. Louis Centre had to be built between and around occupied historic buildingswhile preserving the Famous-Barr flagship and integrating the former Stix, Baer & Fuller building. Construction required:

  • Demolition of existing downtown structures.
  • Installation of underground service and loading facilities.
  • Massive structural steel framing.
  • Construction of enclosed skybridges over city streets.
  • Careful coordination to keep portions of downtown operating throughout construction.

The project showcased Pepper Construction’s expertise in delivering complex urban developments and helped create one of the signature landmarks of downtown St. Louis during the 1980s.

Opening Day

When St. Louis Centre opened on August 8, 1985, it was celebrated as the future of downtown St. Louis. Thousands of people packed the streets for the festivities, which included a spectacular balloon release, appearances by entertainer Bob Hope, live music, giveaways, and extensive television coverage.

For many St. Louisans, walking beneath the soaring glass roof for the first time—with sunlight pouring into the atrium, fountains splashing, escalators filled with shoppers, and more than 100 stores bustling with activity—remains one of downtown’s most memorable moments.

This section gives well-deserved credit to the four organizations that brought the project to life:

  • Visionary Retail Partner: The May Department Stores Company
  • Master Developer: Melvin Simon & Associates
  • Architect: RTKL Associates
  • General Contractor/Builder: Pepper Construction Company