Project Description
Old Post Office Plaza is a 30,000 sq. ft. multipurpose plaza located between Eighth and Ninth streets in downtown St. Louis. The plaza will contain performance space, a large sculpture and waterfall. The focal point of the area will be at the base of the cascading three-story waterfall, showcasing an art sculpture "Torso di Ikaro", from which the plaza design was inspired. The performance space will be a central square area where events can be staged. Programs will include lunchtime and evening music, theater, street performers, weekend markets, film series and special events. A permanent screen wall will be installed next to the Orpheum Theater and will act as a shading device for seating. Trees and benches, forming a labyrinth, will be placed on the east side of the plaza. Additional shaded space on the southwest corner will connect to a raised plateau which terraces down into the water basin.

Unique Challenges
Kozeny-Wagner experienced their biggest challenge early on in this project. Difficult site conditions were discovered in the beginning stages of construction. Due to this finding, the team was forced to re-evaluate the structural design of the project. Originally, the design called for install pile for the support of the structure. However, with the close proximity of the Orpheum Theater, Kozeny-Wagner needed to find a structural design solution to support the projects fountain without risking possible damage to a 100+ year-old building during construction. The team’s resolution used auger cast piles for the structure, which posed no threat of damage to the building. Although this was an unforeseen challenge, the team delivered and kept the cost within the original budget for the scope of work.

Testimonials
"It is refreshing to encounter a company whose message of commitment and care to their clients in their interview presentation never faltered during construction. The Old Post Office Plaza’s difficult site conditions, discovered at the onset of construction, dictated a complex structural redesign process. Kozeny-Wagner’s involvement, commitment and uncommon courtesy has made the process pleasurable."

Client:  Downtown Now!
Building Area:  30,000 Sq. Ft.
Architect:  Baird Sampson Neuert Architects