St. Louis, Missouri is a city rich in history, innovation, and architectural brilliance. Among its most iconic structures are the Wainwright Building and St. Louis Union Station—two landmarks that not only reflect the city’s architectural legacy but also serve as symbols of its cultural and economic evolution.
Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a local historian, or a traveler seeking hidden gems, these two masterpieces offer a glimpse into the Golden Age of American design and continue to shape the urban landscape of downtown St. Louis.
The Wainwright Building
A Pioneer of Modern Architecture
Completed in 1891, the Wainwright Building is often credited as one of the first true skyscrapers in the world. Designed by legendary architect Louis Sullivan, often referred to as the “father of skyscrapers,” and his partner Dankmar Adler, this 10-story building introduced a revolutionary concept: form follows function.
Located at Seventh and Chestnut Streets, the Wainwright Building was designed to highlight verticality, with terracotta cladding, ornate cornices, and a three-part division (base, shaft, capital) inspired by classical columns.
Why It Matters
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Recognized as a National Historic Landmark in 1968
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Influenced early 20th-century skyscraper design
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Studied in architecture programs worldwide
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Frequently cited by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) as one of the most important buildings in U.S. architectural history
Today, the building houses offices for the State of Missouri, but visitors can still admire its facade and historical significance during architectural walking tours of downtown St. Louis.
Union Station
From Transportation Hub to Entertainment Destination
Opened in 1894, St. Louis Union Station once served as one of the largest and busiest train stations in the world, with over 100,000 passengers per day passing through at its peak. Designed by Theodore Link, the station featured an opulent Romanesque Revival style, complete with a grand hall, massive archways, and a 65-foot barrel-vaulted ceiling.
Image credit: w_lemay, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Its crowning glory—the Grand Hall—is adorned with stained glass, gold leaf detailing, and mosaics, earning Union Station a place on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.
Reinvented for the 21st Century
After ceasing passenger rail operations in the 1970s, Union Station underwent a massive transformation. Today, it’s a vibrant entertainment complex featuring:
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St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station
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Ferris wheel and outdoor plaza
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Dining, shopping, and hotel accommodations
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Light and fire shows in the lake area
Union Station has successfully reinvented itself while preserving its architectural heritage, making it a key destination for both locals and tourists.
Comparing the Two: Form, Function, and Legacy
While the Wainwright Building and Union Station served very different purposes—commercial architecture vs. transportation infrastructure—both symbolize a transformative era in American history.
| Feature | Wainwright Building | Union Station |
| Architect | Louis Sullivan | Theodore Link |
| Style | Chicago School | Romanesque Revival |
| Historic Status | National Historic Landmark | National Register of Historic Places |
| Purpose | Commercial office space | Train station (now entertainment hub) |
| Year Completed | 1891 | 1894 |
Their preservation highlights St. Louis’s commitment to architectural heritage while demonstrating how historic buildings can be repurposed for modern use.
Architectural Tourism in St. Louis
St. Louis has emerged as a top destination for architectural tourism, drawing visitors interested in:
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Historic downtown buildings
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Gilded Age train stations
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Mid-century modern design
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Urban revitalization projects
Tour companies and historical societies offer walking tours that include both the Wainwright Building and Union Station, along with other landmarks like the Old Courthouse, Cathedral Basilica, and Gateway Arch.
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