From Classroom to Bedroom New Life for Sts. The plan calls for the Archdiocese of St. Louis to transfer ownership of the buildings to a nonprofit corporation, called Peter and Paul Housing Corporation, which will then develop and manage the loft apartments. Called the Soulard Lofts, the plan proposes the renovation of buildings, once used to teach grade school children, into 20 loft apartments. The buildings face 8th Street, between Geyer and Allen, next to Sts. What is unique about the plan is the creation of loft space.
Lofts are larger than most apartments, but have fewer interior walls, doors and finishes.
Many renters prefer this simple, historic design and the open space that the hallmarks of loft. Lofts have become very popular in other major cities. Only a few loft projects have developed so far in the St. Louis area. The most recent example is the Art Lofts on Washington Avenue, which was completely rented at opening and has a waiting list for occupants. In the Soulard Lofts plan, each classroom will become one unit.