October 13, 2002
House of the Month
4044 Shenandoah

By Jo Ann Vatcha
Community Development Administration

Spend a fine autumn afternoon in Henry Shaw's neighborhood, next door to the Missouri Botanical Garden and Tower Grove Park, and you may find yourself one of the growing number of homeowners in this lovely community. October's "House of the Month" is located at 4044 Shenandoah. This townhouse and other rehabilitated houses will be open Sunday, October 13, 2002 from Noon to 4:00 p.m. It's a great opportunity to see the outstanding workmanship of these nearly century-old homes, where bargains are still available.

4042-44 Shennandoah, formerly a four-unit building, has been rehabilitated by Historic Homes, Inc., into two for-sale townhouses. All systems, including wiring, plumbing, and roofing have been replaced. The classic arched entryway reflects the timeless tradition of St. Louis red brick, and the living room has a pocket door, stained woodwork, and handsome hardwood floors. There is also a formal dining room and a bright kitchen with light wood cabinetry and a great island. Dishwasher, microwave and disposal are included, as are a brand-new deck and private, off-street parking.

On the second floor, the spacious front bedroom is located next to a bonus room ready for TV, computer, or play area. The full bath has been outfitted with ceramic tile for tub surround and floor along with a whirlpool tub. At the rear is another large bedroom with a walk-in closet, adjacent to a onvenient laundry area. All the windows have been replaced with new, but historically appropriate, windows. Other features include the energy-efficient furnace and air conditioning system.

Historic Homes, Inc. is one of several developers who are using historic tax credits and city incentives to save wonderful old buildings and create opportunities for homeowners. Eight other buildings, each previously two rental units, are currently being renovated as single-family homes on this block.

Shaw Neighborhood was named for Henry Shaw, whose legacy created both Tower Grove Park and Missouri Botanical Garden. Nearby, the South Grand Business area is a thriving and convenient shopping area. The Shaw Neighborhood Improvement Association, the Garden District Commission, and St. Margaret's Housing Corporation are some of the outstanding organizations that work with Alderman Steve Conway and the Community Development Administration of the City of St. Louis. Private investment of over $4 million has matched recent public investment and stimulated development and rehabilitated housing. Over 70 units have been completed, property values have risen, problem properties have diminished, and a sense of optimism is evident. The growing number of visitors to community events, like last week's Shaw Art Fair, attest to the popularity of the neighborhood. To see even more for-sale housing, the annual "Fall for Shaw House Tour" will be held October 20th. For more information on this or the neighborhood's "Holiday Home Tour" on December 1st, call Vicky Biermann at (314) 771-4170.

4044 Shenandoah is priced at $139,000 which inludes 10 year tax abatement, and is listed with Coldwell Banker Premier agent Marti Frumhoff, (314) 368-6373. Several other homes are also available at a wide range of prices and may be viewed today, including a townhouse at 3906 Shenandoah and single family rehabs at 4003 and 4014 Shenandoah. A complete list of available properties will be available at the feature home. More information about the Shaw neighborhood and other City of St. Louis neighborhoods may be found at our City of St. Louis website. To reach the houses from Highways 40 or 44, come south on Grand to Magnolia, turn right (west), and turn right (north) on 39th St., then left (west) on Shenandoah.