Officer Matt Crosby

To say that I feel fortunate to be a part of the Srote & Co family would be a drastic understatement. I am so proud to be a part of this team and the work we produce, but mostly, I am proud of the people we are and what we stand for. For the past 19 months we have been working to design and build a home for paralyzed Rock Hill Police Officer – Matt Crosby.

JANUARY 2017 – HOW WE GOT INVOLVED

It started like every other morning- straight to the coffee pot and then to turn on the morning news for the weather and list of current accidents on 270. In general, the morning news serves as background noise but that day something caught my attention. It was an announcement for a Dine Out Event. This was January 2017 so I assumed the next words I heard would be “for Ballwin Police Office, Mike Flamion.” But instead they said “Rock Hill Police Officer, Matt Crosby.” My heart sank! I thought that another St. Louis officer had just been shot.  I immediately went online to get more information and came across an article from the St. Louis Post Dispatch.  Matt Crosby had not just been shot. In fact, he was shot nearly 7 years prior in the line of duty while responding to a domestic disturbance call.

As soon as I made it to the office that morning I shared what little I knew about Matt’s story with Dave Schaub and Robert Srote. I told them I wasn’t sure how I could help or even how to go about helping but wanted their okay to donate my time or services in whatever capacity they could be used. Without hesitation they told me absolutely and before I had figured out how to get in touch with the Crosby’s, Dave and Robert had decided that they would like to offer their architectural services if they were needed.

APRIL 8th, 2010 – THE SHOOTING

It was just another night on patrol for Officer Crosby until a domestic disturbance call came through in the late night hours. Crosby responded with his partner, Lt. Jorden Lewis. Upon arrival, they spotted the suspect as he ran back into his apartment. Crosby and Lewis approached the door, knocked and waited on the landing below. The suspect emerged with his hands at his side and then shot down at the officers with a .380. One bullet grazed Matt’s head, the other lodged in his spine. As a result of his injuries Matt is paralyzed from his chest down and his life and the life of his family has been forever changed.

A LONG ROAD AHEAD

To say the past 8 years have been difficult for the Crosby family would be an understatement. Matt has endured many setbacks and struggles and the psychological and physical healing continues today. As recently as July 2016, after a pressure wound developed under his leg from being left unattended too many nights in his wheelchair, Matt found himself at Mercy Hospital St. Louis for the first of three surgeries that would be required. When Dave, Robert and myself visited Matt for the first time in January of 2017, he was still bedridden recovering from these surgeries. He had literally spent the past 6 months of his life, in the back bedroom of his rental house, laying on his side. He was mentally and physically exhausted but still he  remained hopeful. Mostly due to a group of family, friends and complete strangers that call themselves The Crosby Crew, the very same group that organized the Dine Out Event that caught my attention!!! This amazing group of volunteers continue to raise funds and awareness on Matt’s behalf today.

IT TAKES A VILLAGE

Today Matt Crosby and his family’s lives are changing! Construction is underway on his new home and the foundation is nearing completion! This build truly is a labor of love and a testament to the spirit of St. Louis and its residents. In the years since Matt’s injury the Crosby’s have reached out to various organizations in an effort to provide him with an accessible home but to no avail. With no corporate sponsors or major donors associated with this effort we have turned to our local community to make this dream a reality. Dozens of local businesses have stepped up to give back and get involved in any way they can. As one of the people in our office who takes these calls I can tell you that I have been moved to tears by the generosity that has been extended.

GET BUSY LIVING, OR GET BUSY DYING

The line from Matt’s favorite movie is much more than a quote, it is the way he is living his life these days. Matt is in a unique situation and is using his experience to help others who would otherwise have no one that could relate to what they are going through. I firmly believe it was no coincidence that while Matt was at Mercy recovering from the first surgery on his pressure wound, a police officer from Ballwin was being rushed to the same hospital with severe gunshot wounds that would ultimately leave him paralyzed. That police officer was Mike Flamion. Matt met with Officer Flamion’s family and in many ways counseled them on what lay ahead.  Shortly after that experience, Matt found himself reaching out to the wife of Hazelwood Officer Craig Tudor after he was left paralyzed in an on duty traffic accident. It is hard to say what is in store for Matt Crosby in the coming years but today he is upbeat, positive, and an active participant in a life he is so thankful to have. In a recent post on the Friends of Officer Matt Crosby Facebook page, Matt had this to share –

“Today is my ALIVE day! 8 years ago today my life changed in the blink of an eye. I’ve endured so much during these last 8 years, but I am still standing (hold the jokes LOL). I’ve learned a lot about family, friends and definitely, myself! I’ve reignited my relationship with God and look at life in a whole different way. I thank God for keeping me on this earth and for blessing me with such amazing family and friends, without whom I wouldn’t be in such a positive place today! I feel I still have so much to offer the world. I strive to better myself and to be a better person everyday. Life is short people. So get busy living, while you still can! Live, love & laugh! “

HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED

Donations are still needed. A page has been set up for all material and labor donations on the Schaub & Co Architects – Officer Crosby Page.

To find out more about the Crosby Crew – Crosby Crew website or the Friends of Officer Matt Crosby Facebook page click on the links provided.

To stay up to date on the progress of the build follow Srote & Co on Instagram and Facebook for weekly construction updates.

REFERENCE MATERIALS

To learn more about Matt Crosby’s journey click on the links provided below –

Rock Hill police officer: ‘I’m still alive’

Paralyzed Rock Hill officer spends first year trying to cope

Confined to bed, disabled former Rock Hill police officer feels forgotten

Volunteers rallying to raise money for paralyzed Rock Hill officer

Cops and citizens look to help paralyzed Rock Hill officer with home improvements

Paralyzed Rock Hill officer to receive smart home

Groundbreaking for former Rock Hill officer’s accessible home

Spotlight on Brentwood

While the exterior of our office at 2900 S. Brentwood Blvd is still under construction, the interior is finally starting to feel like home. In honor of our new location, today we turn our focus on a few of the amazing stores that we now share the 63144 zip code with.

  1. The White Rabbit

The White Rabbit is a mother-daughter owned boutique. The store offers unique gifts, home decor and accessories like old frames, whitewashed furniture, florals and sparkly chandeliers. They are animal lovers so don’t be surprised to see a furry family member when you visit.

Currently coveting:

 

THE WHITE RABBIT  |  9030 Manchester Road

 

2. The Refind Room

The Refind Room is an eclectic mix of vintage, modern, contemporary, mid-century furnishings. Each of their one-of-a-kind pieces is showcased in a designer inspired setting that is fresh, interesting and full of personality. If you love brands like Baker and Henredon or original mid-century art, you’ve found your home.

Currently coveting:

 

THE REFIND ROOM  |  2525 S. Brentwood Blvd

 

3. The Gifted Gardener

The Gifted Gardener is your entertaining HQ. They have gifts, decorative accessories, candles, pillows and more for every occasion and season. Garden accessories including statuary, urns, fountains, birdhouses, architectural remnants and more.

Currently coveting:

 

THE GIFTED GARDENER  |  8935 Manchester Road

 

4. K. Hall Designs

K. Hall Studio brings high quality and uniquely handcrafted home fragrance and personal care goods to the marketplace. This Midwest based company has expanded over recent years to include five brands and hundreds of products. Throughout its growth, K. Hall Studio has continuously maintained its core focus on producing the highest quality products with unique and appealing fragrance and timeless packaging.

Currently coveting:

 

K. HALL DESIGNS  |  8416 Manchester Road

 

Do you live or work in Brentwood? We would love to hear about your favorite places!

St. Louis Spotlight – Soulard

Soulard is a historic French neighborhood in St. Louis. Lined with red-brick townhomes, this neighborhood houses many restaurants and lively bars, making it one of the most well-known neighborhoods of the city.

MARDI GRAS CELEBRATION

It’s been said that St. Louis hosts the second-largest Mardi Gras gathering in the country (second to New Orleans, of course)! If you’ve never been, you should experience it at least once. There is A LOT of fun to be had! Here are a couple tips to remember: arrive early, don’t drive, and it’s always helpful to know someone that lives in the neighborhood (because standing in line for the bathroom is no fun)!

MOLLY’S

Molly’s is a great place to grab some N’awlins inspired dishes and drinks while enjoying patio weather. They have seven bars and lots of TVs for watching the Cardinals and Blues – great for large groups!

FARMERS MARKET

The city’s most iconic market is open year round, Wednesday through Saturday. Here you’ll find local produce, meats, seafood, cheese, pastries, flowers, and spices. It’s a great way to support your local farmers while getting some of the freshest ingredients available!

JOHN D. MCGURK’S IRISH PUB & GARDEN

It’s almost patio season, and the expansive patio and garden at McGurk’s is simply the best! The garden features several water features and beautiful greenery, which make it a perfect spot for an afternoon bite to eat.

PIECES

THE St. Louis Board Game Bar & Cafe! Gather your buds and choose from over 500 games to play. Can’t wait to visit this place!

Shop Small & Support Local Businesses!

Here’s a list of local shops to consider while out shopping this weekend, throughout the holiday season and anytime throughout the year! Some of these shops even offer free delivery to the St. Louis area – good to know!

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Circa Boutique:  A clothing and gift boutique in downtown Belleville, IL and also Edwardsville, IL! The shop also offers candles, artwork, and custom jewelry!

City Sprouts:  A one-stop, super cool shop for babies and kids featuring amazing clothes, eco-friendly toys, designer diaper bags, and modern nursery furniture and decor.

Fable and Lore:  Hand-crafted, infinitely wearable jewelry for the modern free spirit.

Future Ancestor:  A curated home decor shop specializing in handmade goods, vintage furniture, and unique gifts.

Left Bank Books:  The oldest and largest independently-owned full-line bookstore in St. Louis. They offer a full-line of new and used books, gifts, cards, magazines, toys and services.

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Lemon Gem:  This brand-new kitchen store is set for its soft opening this Saturday, 11/26. It will offer the basics – pots, pans, spatulas, spoons, bakeware, aprons, kitchen gifts – from a range of well-known brands to local artisans. The shop will also feature a community cookbook library – how great is that?!

124 West Jefferson, Kirkwood, Missouri 63122

Moonbeams:  Located in the heart of Kirkwood this shop offers a variety of gift and home decor items that are truly unique and often one-of-a-kind!

Union Studio:  An independent and locally owned shop featuring a thoughtful, classic collection of St. Louis artists’ hand-crafted goods and fine art. Every item they sell—clothing, housewares and fine art—is handmade by nearby artists, our neighbors.

Urban Matter:   Home furnishings & gift shop featuring local makers, curated treasures & made-by-hand goods for both men & women.

Zee Bee Market:  Curated handmade & Fair Trade products from around the world – plus coffee, chocolate, tea, more. Their hand-crafted baskets are a personal favorite!

What are some other local gems that I missed – let us know where you like to shop in the St. Louis area.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING & HAPPY SHOPPING!

Home Sweet Home

As a designer I know the impact an environment can have on those living in it. So when I came across an article about Home Sweet Home, a St. Louis non-profit, in the Ladue News I knew I had to get involved. Next week many of us will gather around a table with family and friends and give thanks for the things in our lives that mean the most to us so I thought this would be an appropriate time to share the organization and my experience with you.

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ABOUT HOME SWEET HOME

Home Sweet Home is a local organization, based in midtown St. Louis, that works with case managers at partner agencies throughout the St. Louis region to provide clients access to new or gently-used furnishings and basic household items. The majority of the people they serve are veterans, those who are homeless, and survivors of domestic violence looking for a new start. This October they celebrated their first anniversary and in that short time they have served over 140 families in need in St Louis and St. Louis County.letter

“Just wanted to update you and your staff. And say thank you for all the work you do for us and the community. Home Sweet Home is a godsend and you and your staff are angels. My dad started to tear up when we brought the furniture in. In this day and time, when the world wants to take, I just want you to know that you guys gave me and my dad a home. Continued success and may God’s blessings continue for you and your families. This Marine is forever grateful. Semper Fi.”

HOW IT WORKS

Once referred by their case managers, clients are able to shop in their warehouse to select all of the furnishings and household items they will need for their new residence. All items are then packed, delivered and installed by Home Sweet Home volunteers. Their mission depends on furniture and household donations(they will come and pick up your items), volunteers(to help clients shop, pack, install, organize) and monetary donations.collage-1

“In order to effectively address homelessness in America and impact a long-term solution to this problem, people transitioning out of homelessness need help with stability. At Home Sweet Home, we believe part of that stability comes from establishing a first home stocked with the necessities for everyday life. Part of maintaining a home is usability and affordability. We can help make taking the first step to stable home life comfortable and accessible.”

MY EXPERIENCE

After reading the article and visiting their website, I contacted Betsy Reznicek, Executive Director at Home Sweet Home, to see how I could get involved.  On October 7th, I got the call! The client was a military veteran with a 4 year old daughter. Due to her work schedule and relying on public transportation she would be unable to come in and select her items. I was asked to come in and make the selections on her behalf then participate in the delivery and installation. Making the selections at the warehouse was an eye opening experience. While some of the clients they serve are in need of a few items this family was literally starting from scratch. When we arrived at the apartment for the install, it was completely empty except for a sleeping bag on the floor that the mom and daughter had been sleeping in together. That day we set up beds with linens and pillows, stocked the cabinets with plates, cups, and utensils, and arranged a small sitting and eating area. It doesn’t seem like much but to this family it was everything.12510406_485528648301571_1819704498813117248_n

I can tell you the entire process of loading the furniture at the warehouse to completing the install took no more than 2 hours. I can not tell you how many times the mom thanked and hugged each of us nor can I adequately express the emotions I experienced seeing her daughter jump into her very own bed with a pillow. I volunteered to make a difference in someone else’s life. I never expected the experience to make such a difference in mine.

 

If you are interested in learning more about Home Sweet Home, their volunteer opportunities and upcoming events, please visit their website or Facebook page.

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Saint Louis Artist – Chad M. Lawson

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GET FAMILIAR

Chad M. Lawson is a true creative soul living and working in downtown St. Louis! Chad is best known for his beautiful abstracts done on salvaged wood doors and his mixing of oils and acrylics to create unique textures and movement. Painting on a hard wood surface can pose quite a challenge but he has mastered the skills to do so. Each piece of art is striking, layered, and begs the viewer to take a closer look!

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BE INSPIRED

Chad finds inspiration in literature and music. Part of his process is to work on a few pieces at a time while listening to a specific musical artist or genre. The type of music influences the intensity of each stroke. One day he might add strong graffiti-like elements while listening to hip-hop and the next day add precise, delicate lines while listening to his favorite cellist.

sankofabird

The sankofa symbol is another important element of his work. Based on a mythical bird with its feet firmly planted forward and its head turned backwards, sankofa signifies the wisdom in learning from the past to ensure a strong future. You can see elements of this symbol in several of his works (see below)!

 

SHOW ME MORE

Want to see more?! Chad currently has pieces on display at the Cortex as well as Whitebox Eatery! Be sure to visit his website to see more of his amazing creations.

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Chad is currently working on a collection investigating the journey and challenges within the adoption and adoptee narrative.  The collection features the adding and subtracting of layers, movement, and color in the search for identity, be it past or present. This work will be revealed at his February 2017 show.

Chad is also writing a book on growth for both ones art and building lasting relationships with clients. He draws on his over twenty years of curating his own work and others, with what would these days be called “pop-up” shows. Chad started doing this in the mid 1990’s in Miami, then St. Louis, and San Francisco. The book will also contain advice and questions for both new and established artists to help them better structure their time, finances, and resources. Be on the lookout for it early next year!

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Photos from my studio visit with Chad!

Viewings by appointment only.

chadmlawson@gmail.com | www.chadmlawson.com | @chadmlawson

Srote & Co Architects | Latest Completed Projects!

I can’t believe summer is already coming to a close! We have been quite busy here at Srote & Co Architects | Planners | Interiors! We have so many exciting new projects in various phases of design. While planning, drawings, sample ordering, pricing, etc. are all important steps in the home building/renovation process, nothing is more exciting than seeing the final product! Seeing your vision and plans come to fruition is a magical feeling!

Here’s a peek at a few projects we have completed this year.

SACKSTON PRAIRIE

This custom home architecture was planned and built based on a modern prairie style home design concept. I love the exterior of this home with its strong horizontal lines complimented by natural stone and stucco. Inside, the floor plan is open and the decor is cool and contemporary!

LAUREL FARMHOUSE

The essence of cool. This modern farmhouse design is clean and classic, yet modern and fun! Check out the floating staircase, beautiful planked fireplace and vaulted ceiling.

SUNSET HILLS OUTDOOR ADDITION

I’m sure this custom home addition design is getting lots of use this summer! It includes an extended garage with a large grotto located directly beneath it. Equipped with a bar, dining and lounge area, bathroom and changing room, this grotto has everything you need for a summer gathering.

TWIN FAWN CUSTOM

This custom design spec home is currently FOR SALE!  It is situated on a 1 acre level lot and offers over 5,000 sq ft of living space. It was completed with neutral finishes with textural interest to create a relaxing interior and serve as the perfect backdrop for future home owners.

We have quite a bit more in the works so stay tuned for another update in the future! Or check out our architecture and interior design portfolio.

Saint Louis Artist – Ted Collier, Ted Collier Fine Art

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GET FAMILIAR

If you don’t know who Ted Collier is, you really should.  Best known for his abstract acrylic paintings on canvas and signature circles he refuses to be defined by one style or medium.  An avid outdoorsman and fisherman, he is inspired by the patterns he observes in nature as well as the space his art will occupy.  Ted is an artist in every sense of the word. His passion and intensity are infectious and he happens to be a super cool guy!

ARTIST EVOLUTION

A lot has changed for Ted Collier in the past 5 years. The story goes something like this- boy meets girl, girl encourages boy to pursue his life long passion, boy listens to girl (good boy) and leaves his career in commercial real estate, boy and girl get married, open a restaurant (Katie’s Pizza & Pasta in Rock Hill), and boy achieves international success.

GRATITUDE, DRIVE AND FOCUS

Ted Collier is proof that with enough hard work and determination your dreams can be achieved. His new 2,500 square foot studio/gallery space in Creve Coeur is a far cry from the corner in the auto repair shop he was painting in just a few years ago. Today his art is featured in countless private collections in Saint Louis, Switzerland and Australia to name a few. Ted is also experiencing commercial success. Most recently he was commissioned by Nordstrom to create 18 pieces for their Los Angeles Flagship Store and Vancouver, BC stores. He is truly humbled by all the support and encouragement he receives. Lucky for us that only fuels his artistic fire. The sky is the limit for this Saint Louis artist and I personally can not wait to see what his future holds. #stlproud

Ted Collier Fine Art is located in Creve Coeur, Missouri. Viewing is by appointment only. Prepare to be inspired!

Ted Collier Fine Art | Saint Louis, MO 63132 | 314.803.7727

www.tedcollierart.com

UNINTENTIONAL ART

I recently visited Ted’s studio and while we were viewing and discussing the available pieces I couldn’t help but notice the paint splatter on his black boots. I joked with him that the splatter on his boots even looks like a piece of art. When I told him I was going to mention them in the blog he sent me a photo. Guess what? Even the photo he sent me of the paint splattered black boots looks like a piece of art!!!

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Ted Collier in action | aforementioned boots

 

 

Saint Louis Artisan – Martin Goebel, Goebel & Co. Furniture

 

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A Saint Louisan To His Core

After graduating from Ladue Horton Watkins High School, Martin Goebel embarked on an education that spanned almost a decade in the pursuit of his true passion. Martin received his traditional training, at the College of the Redwoods in Ft. Bragg, California, in cabinet and furniture making. Upon graduating, he returned to Saint Louis and for the next 6 years he created custom pieces while completing his Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Missouri, Saint Louis. In 2008, he was accepted to the Rhode Island School of Design in Providence, RI. Martin received his Masters of Fine Arts in Furniture, with an emphasis on digital design and returned to Saint Louis once again in 2011 to start Goebel & Co. Furniture.  Today racks of Cherry, Walnut and White Oak and other American classics fill the Goebel & Co. warehouse on Locust Street in Midtown Saint Louis.

Making Utility Elegant

Martin Goebel has been quoted as saying “Design is a reaction to the study of life.  At Goebel & Co. we celebrate the simple activities of life through elegantly simple furniture. The real masterpiece of design is the life that occurs on and around our furniture.” While this describes the conceptual approach to his designs the execution of his pieces are a true testament to the functionalist design approach largely inspired by American architect Louis Sullivan, best known for his phrase “form (ever) follows function.”

Tradition meets Technology

A true testament to his educational background, every piece of furniture that Goebel & Co. creates is a combination of digital technology,  manufacturing and hand-craftsmanship. Designs are realized through the process of 3D modeling and then the individual components are either manufactured in-house or sent to a regional subcontractor. This approach allows Goebel & Co. to control the cost to the client and also take advantage of the cutting edge technology and skilled labor their regional partners offer. All of the pieces are assembled, inspected and finished at the Goebel & Co. workshop.

Goebel & Co. Furniture is featured locally in Companion Bakery, Brennan’s Wine and Tobacco, 4 Hands Brewing Co., Tani Sushi and Urban Chestnut Brewing Company’s Grove Brewery & Bierhall just to name a few. I encourage you to visit their website to be inspired and then give them a call to create a piece that is uniquely yours.

Goebel & Co. Furniture | 2936 Locust Street | Saint Louis, MO 63103

www.goebelfurniture.com