Lofts in Fox Park’s future?

Fox Park is one of those South St. Louis neighborhoods in the midst of a transition. Unfortunately, like surrounding neighborhoods such as Benton Park West and Tower Grove East, the current downturn in the market has stalled the progress of redevelopment in the area. But all I see when I pass through the area is the untapped potential.

When I say potential, I don’t mean potential for rehabbing quaint bungalows or converting four families to townhomes. I’m talking about warehouses. The section of the neighborhood bordered by Shenandoah to the north, Jefferson to the east, Gravois to the south, and California to the west is filled with warehouses and vacant lots. I’ve never counted the exact number, but there are at least six of various sizes. You can see pictures of a few of them below. I can’t help but picture these buildings converted into lofts.

Of course there are issue to consider. By appearances these warehouses all seem to be currently occupied. Additionally, there are doubtlessly environmental issues that would also need to be considered. Concerns aside, I can’t help but think that as the area continues to develop, someone will come in and buy up one or more of these buildings.

Considering the rising prices of loft style apartments and condos Downtown, the lower costs associated with a development in an area such as this would make the finished product quite marketable. People like the loft life, but it was originally popular because it offered a trendy lifestyle for an affordable price. Downtown developers have lost track of this fact and the relatively low acquisition costs associated with these buildings would offer developers an opportunity get back to the roots of the concept. Here’s to hoping this is more than just a wild fantasy.

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