press release

Grand Opening of the Abbey on the Park in Lafayette Square
Former Lafayette Presbyterian Church Resurrected as Condos

St. Louis -- July 05, 2005 -- After decades of neglect the former Lafayette Presbyterian Church at 1505 Missouri Avenue has been resurrected as the Abbey on the Park, featuring unique, luxury condominiums. Located on the West side of historic Lafayette Park in the heart of Lafayette Square, the Abbey is set among restored 19th century mansions that were built by some of St. Louis' most prominent families. Abbey residents can fully enjoy all the amenities of this family friendly neighborhood such as walking their dogs in the park, strolling along the wide sidewalks and bike paths or walking to one of the neighborhood's many shops and restaurants.

Gilded Age, Lafayette Square's largest developer, undertook the project two years ago in conjunction with the Lawrence Group and BSI Constructors. The results have drawn rave reviews from the scores of guests that visit every weekend.

The entire complex features a total of nine units of which three are already sold and occupied. The remaining six include three penthouses on a private floor that feature 30-foot ceilings of stained hardwood. Many of the units also feature massive original gothic brackets that were originally located in the main church. These brackets are up to 10 feet tall and two feet wide. The penthouses also feature a large butler's area in an adjacent room.

The original stained glass windows have been restored wherever possible. Penthouse units feature full height two-story windows in gothic recesses. Custom doors have been specially made to mimic the arches of the windows. In keeping with the upscale and historic nature of the project, all units feature hardwood floors in the living and entertaining areas.

The signature and most striking unit is the largest penthouse which features the original organ pipes and the original elevated platforms complete with intricately carved mouldings. The gourmet kitchen is built behind the organ. Large elevated platforms are suitable for future additions as open second story libraries accessible by spiral staircases.

All units feature gas fireplaces with unique recessed arches above the mantle that continue the gothic theme of the unit.

Granite countertops with undermount sinks are standard in every unit. All of the kitchens are expansive and open to satisfy the most demanding chef. Large 42-inch cabinets compliment the kitchen and high ceilings. Stainless steel, professional grade appliances are also standard.

As with all condominium developments, the modest monthly fee insures a carefree lifestyle that removes the owners from the burden of lawn care, building maintenance and repairs. Most units feature high efficiency, zoned heating and cooling units.

Gilded Age has several other developments in the Lafayette Square area that include the Georgian (104 condominums) which is already half sold out; Eden Lofts (40 condominiums) which features contemporary loft spaces in one of the few remaining art deco buildings in the area; Mississippi Place (16 townhomes) which are custom designed to replicate the original mansions that once stood on the site; and 1801 Park (8 condominiums) located across from Sqwires. These are all new developments complete with new systems to insure years of trouble free living. Additional information on these quality developments is available at secondempirerealty.com.

Lafayette Square is conveniently located just North and West of the intersection of interstates 55 and 44, and just blocks south of Highway 40. The neighborhood is just west of Soulard and is within walking distance.

The Abbey on the Park is open to the public every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5pm. Viewings are also available by appointment any day or time with the listing agents or buyers agent. For more information call Second Empire Realty at 314.762.9750.