ST. LOUIS — On April 25, Ranken Technical College hosted its annual Architecture Student Showcase, highlighting the work of 38 junior and senior students who presented class projects aimed at re-envisioning north St. Louis.
The event featured Jody Sowell, president and CEO of the Missouri Historical Society, who delivered the opening remarks.
During his keynote address, titled “I Am St. Louis,” Sowell spoke to students about the city’s rich history and the deep connection between its identity and architectural legacy.
The event was followed by the student showcase, where they presented layouts of their designs along with physical models of their infrastructures.
This year’s theme, “Building Community in St. Louis Place,” challenged students to think critically about community-centered development. Among the projects presented were designs for key infrastructure elements, including a justice center, grocery store, and senior living center.
As part of their four-month project, students were divided into eight groups of four to five and tasked with designing a unique building.
Each group then collaborated to combine their designs into a cohesive neighborhood plan intended to help revitalize north St. Louis. The goal of the project was to improve quality of life in the area.
Architectural technology instructors AnnaMarie Bliss and Elizabeth Proost oversaw the students’ projects, which had been in development since January.