The restoration of the Old Playground and Turkish pavilions at Tower Grove Park received the AIA Craftsmanship Award on November 17, 2021, from the American Institute of Architects of St. Louis.

The project received an “Honor Award” in Craftsmanship at the 2021 AIA St. Louis Design Awards, which means the competition jurors unanimously agreed it should be recognized.

“The Park is grateful to have worked with such a professional and passionate group on this project. They have helped to ensure that these significant Victorian pavilions will be around for another 150 years for our visitors to enjoy,” Tower Grove Park Executive Director Bill Reininger said.

The project’s goal was to restore each nearly 150-year old pavilion to its original condition. The architectural design team from Trivers outlined the scope of work by researching the history of the pavilions, ensuring the design adhered to the original details. Vanstar Construction served as the general contractor, and Navigate Building Solutions worked as the owner’s representative. Megeri performed the project’s carpentry work.

The physical renovation effort took place between March and August 2021. Substantial work was performed on structural improvements to the wood columns, which required custom shoring to accommodate the delicate roof structures. The Turkish Pavilion required the entire structure to be supported while new foundations were poured beneath the outer ring of cast iron columns. The Turkish Pavilion roof also required a highly technical and rarely performed cast iron stitch repair.

Both pavilions also received specialty custom color roof coatings.

The result of the collaborative effort between 15 firms exceeded expectations, and the stunning pavilions were available for rent by Park patrons in August. A special ceremony to officially light the pavilions with new ornamental lighting was held September 15.

Both structures were built in the early 1870s based on plans by Eugene Greenleaf. The octagonal Old Playground Pavilion sits on the north side of Main Drive a few hundred yards inside the Grand Avenue park entrance. The Turkish Pavilion is located on the east side of Tower Grove Avenue and is easily identifiable by its vibrant red and white striped roof.

Restoration of the Turkish Pavilion was made possible through a gift from Ann and Mike Konzen, while restoration of the Old Playground Pavilion was possible because of a gift from Nancy and Steve Kidwell. Additional support for the project was received from Ameren Corporate Charitable Trust.