Step into a hub of innovation and community at Hello St. Louis, the gleaming gem of St. Louis, Missouri. This dynamic space is more than just a co-working area; it's a vibrant ecosystem that has become an integral part of the city's bustling creative scene. Hello St. Louis welcomes entrepreneurs, freelancers, and businesses alike, offering a seamless
blend of comfort and productivity that inspires success.
With its state-of-the-art facilities, Hello St. Louis boasts an impressive array of workspaces designed to spark connection and creativity. Whether you're seeking a quiet nook for focused work or a collaborative setting for brainstorming, this space has it all. The vibrant decor and natural light create an inviting atmosphere that is both contemporary and
4 | HelloSt. Louis, Missouri • Winter Issue
Hello St. Louis, Missouri • Winter Issue |5
Discover the Warmth and Charm of Hello St.
welcoming.
Beyond the workspaces, Hello St. Louis prides itself on building a community. Regular networking events, workshops, and social gatherings foster a spirit of collaboration and support among its members. The location is prime, with easy access to local eateries and cultural hotspots that make St. Louis a city of perpetual discovery.
Hello St. Louis stands as a testament to what the city represents—an open invitation to innovation and community spirit in the heart of the Midwest.
Discover the Warmth and Charm of Hello St. Louis
Step into a hub of innovation and community at Hello St. Louis, the gleaming gem of St. Louis, Missouri. This dynamic space is more than just a co-working area; it's a vibrant ecosystem that has become an integral part of the city's bustling creative scene. Hello St. Louis welcomes entrepreneurs, freelancers, and businesses alike, offering a seamless blend of comfort and productivity that inspires success.
With its state-of-the-art facilities, Hello St. Louis boasts an impressive array of workspaces designed to spark connection and creativity. Whether you're seeking a quiet nook for focused work or a collaborative setting for brainstorming, this space has it all. The vibrant decor and natural light create an inviting atmosphere that is both contemporary and welcoming.
Beyond the workspaces, Hello St. Louis prides itself on building a community. Regular networking events, workshops, and social gatherings foster a spirit of collaboration and support among its members. The location is prime, with easy access to local eateries and cultural hotspots that make St. Louis a city of perpetual discovery.
Hello St. Louis stands as a testament to what the city represents—an open invitation to innovation and community spirit in the heart of the Midwest.
Changing Fireplace Color Without Replacing It
If you're considering changing the look of your fireplace, painting it might feel risky. Brick and stone fireplaces have a naturally attractive appearance, but over time, styles change. Fortunately, there are ways to update your fireplace color without giving it an artificial, painted look.
consider your goals. Are you aiming for a modern refresh, or do you prefer a timeless, traditional feel? Understanding this helps determine your color choices.The secret to a professional looking fireplace makeover lies in carefully layering colors. Instead of applying one flat coat of paint,
6 | HelloSt. Louis, Missouri • Winter Issue
Changing Fireplace Color Without Replacing It
If you're considering changing the look of your fireplace, painting it might feel risky. Brick and stone fireplaces have a naturally attractive appearance, but over time, styles change. Fortunately, there are ways to update your fireplace color without giving it an artificial, painted look.
First, consider your goals. Are you aiming for a modern refresh, or do you prefer a timeless, traditional feel? Understanding this helps determine your color choices.
The secret to a professional looking fireplace makeover lies in carefully layering colors. Instead of applying one flat coat of paint, you'll use multiple tones, creating depth and realism.
Here’s how it’s done: Start with the Mortar Color To avoid heat-related problems, an atypical type of paint is used. Mineral paint is an older style of water-based paint which contains no plastics like vinyl or acrylic. Most any color from any manufacturer’s paint deck can be created with this type of paint. Typically, a lighter neutral color works best, as mortar is usually lighter than brick or stone.
Layering Multiple Colors Next, select three to five similar colors for painting the bricks or stones. Colors should be closely related yet subtly varied to create dimension. Earth tones like tans, grays, browns, and reds usually achieve the most realistic results. Keep each color within the same color family to maintain a cohesive look.
Paint each brick or stone individually, alternating colors randomly. This randomness will mimic the naturally varied look of real brick or stone. It's crucial to apply paint lightly and evenly to avoid an overly uniform, painted look. Thin coats will help retain the brick or stone’s original texture, ensuring the result looks authentically rustic.
Adding Final Washes for Realism The final step, adding thin washes of color, elevates your project from looking "painted" to truly natural. To create these washes, dilute your water-based paint with water, creating a semi-transparent wash. Lightly apply these washes over individual bricks or stones, letting the original colors peek through in areas. The subtle variations created by these washes replicate the tones and textures found naturally in brick or stone.
Updating the color of your fireplace doesn't have to mean sacrificing its natural appearance.
With careful color selection and application, you can achieve a beautiful and convincing transformation, completely altering the mood of your living space without the significant expense or labor of a complete fireplace replacement.
Maintenance and Durability Once you've successfully changed the color of your fireplace, it’s helpful to remember a few maintenance tips. Choosing paints specifically designed for masonry or fireplaces ensures durability and heat resistance, which is particularly important if your fireplace is regularly used. Cleaning the painted brick or stone occasionally with a non-sudsing soap and water will also keep your refreshed fireplace looking its best.
In summary, transforming your fireplace by adjusting its color is achievable with careful preparation, thoughtful color selection, and precise application. By following these tips, you’ll have an elegant, updated focal point in your room, achieved without the need for costly and messy replacement.
John Bubenik
paint deck can be created with this type of paint. Typically, a lighter neutral color works best, as mortar is usually lighter than brick or stone.Layering Multiple ColorsNext, select three to five similar colors for painting the bricks or stones. Colors should be closely related yet subtly varied to create dimension. Earth tones like tans, grays, browns, and reds usually achieve the most realistic results. Keep each color within the same color family to maintain a cohesive look.Paint each brick or stone individually, alternating colors randomly. This randomness will mimic the naturally varied look of real brick or stone. It's...
you'll use multiple tones, creating depth and realism.Here’s how it’s done:Start with the Mortar ColorTo avoid heat-related problems, an atypical type of paint is used. Mineral paint is an older style of water-based paint which contains no plastics like vinyl or acrylic. Most any color from any manufacturer’s
Updating the color of your fireplace doesn't have to mean sacrificing its natural appearance.
About the Author
John Bubenik is the founder of Color Craftsmen, a St. Louis interior refinishing expert specializing in artistic fireplace makeovers. With a background in the arts and European training, he delivers award-winning craftsmanship and personalized, detail-driven transformations. John's passion for creativity shines through in every unique project.
HelloSt. Louis, Missouri • Winter Issue |7
A Vibrant Tapestry of Tradition and Innovation
St. Louis, Missouri, is a city that masterfully combines rich history with the rhythm of modern evolution. Known for its iconic Gateway Arch, St. Louis serves as a beacon of opportunity and growth where the past gracefully mingles with the present. This regional gem offers a vibrant lifestyle with an eclectic mix of cultural attractions, thriving neighborhoods, and a welcoming community spirit.
Residents and visitors alike enjoy the abundance of green spaces and
revitalized waterfronts, with Forest Park leading as a magnificent green oasis, larger than New York’s Central Park, offering everything from outdoor concerts to quiet nature trails. St. Louis is a hub of innovation, celebrated for its dynamic job market and burgeoning tech scene that enthusiastically welcomes new businesses and entrepreneurs.
The city’s neighborhoods boast architectural charm and character, each with its own unique flavor, whether it’s the historic
St. Louis
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Hello St. Louis, Missouri • Winter Issue |9
ambiance of Soulard or the trendy vibe of Central West End. Culinary enthusiasts can revel in a rich tapestry of flavors, with local delights like toasted ravioli and gooey butter cake offering a taste of homegrown flair.
With its vibrant arts scene, rich musical heritage, and warm, friendly atmosphere, St. Louis paints a compelling portrait of a city that treasures its roots while eagerly embracing the
St. Louis
St. Louis: A Vibrant Tapestry of Tradition and Innovation
St. Louis, Missouri, is a city that masterfully combines rich history with the rhythm of modern evolution. Known for its iconic Gateway Arch, St. Louis serves as a beacon of opportunity and growth where the past gracefully mingles with the present. This regional gem offers a vibrant lifestyle with an eclectic mix of cultural attractions, thriving neighborhoods, and a welcoming community spirit.
Residents and visitors alike enjoy the abundance of green spaces and revitalized waterfronts, with Forest Park leading as a magnificent green oasis, larger than New York’s Central Park, offering everything from outdoor concerts to quiet nature trails. St. Louis is a hub of innovation, celebrated for its dynamic job market and burgeoning tech scene that enthusiastically welcomes new businesses and entrepreneurs.
The city’s neighborhoods boast architectural charm and character, each with its own unique flavor, whether it’s the historic ambiance of Soulard or the trendy vibe of Central West End. Culinary enthusiasts can revel in a rich tapestry of flavors, with local delights like toasted ravioli and gooey butter cake offering a taste of homegrown flair.
With its vibrant arts scene, rich musical heritage, and warm, friendly atmosphere, St. Louis paints a compelling portrait of a city that treasures its roots while eagerly embracing the future.
