In a monumental auction that captivated the real estate community, two iconic buildings designed by the renowned interior designer Rita St. Clair have found new owners. The former home of Rita St. Clair Associates, located at 1009 N. Charles St., along with the neighboring building at 1011 N. Charles St., were the focal points of this online-only event conducted by Alex Cooper Auctioneers in the historic Mount Vernon district.
The auction, which commenced on January 23 and concluded at noon on Tuesday, saw bidding soar past the $1.3 million mark, with the individual buildings fetching impressive sums. Paul Cooper, the auctioneer, revealed that the building at 1009 N. Charles Street received a top bid of $500,000, ultimately selling for $525,000 including the buyer’s premium. Meanwhile, the adjacent property at 1011 N. Charles Street commanded a top bid of $740,000, resulting in a final sale price of $777,000.
The building at 1009 N. Charles Street, spanning five levels and encompassing 10,019 square feet, served as the headquarters of Rita St. Clair Associates for several decades. Founded by St. Clair in 1967, the interior design firm was a beacon of creativity and sophistication, attracting clients from far and wide. With four parking spaces to its name, the building stood as a testament to St. Clair’s artistic vision and dedication to her craft.
Rita St. Clair, a luminary in the world of design, is not only a professional powerhouse but also a seasoned traveler and connoisseur of fine arts. Her portfolio boasts an array of notable projects, including The Polo Grill, Velleggia’s, Petit Louis, and the Residences at the Ritz Carlton in Baltimore. Additionally, she has collaborated with luxury manufacturers such as David Edward, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
On the other hand, the four-story building at 1011 N. Charles Street, spanning 7,680 square feet, is a multifaceted gem in its own right. Featuring five occupied apartments on the upper levels, first-floor office space, and six parking spaces, the property exudes charm and functionality. It once housed St. Clair’s beloved shop, “Findings,” where she curated a collection of furniture and decorative arts from her global travels, offering a glimpse into her eclectic tastes and discerning eye.
As the auction unfolded, the identities of the new owners remained shrouded in mystery, adding an air of intrigue to the proceedings. With 1009 N. Charles LLC and 1011 N. Charles LLC serving as the sellers, the allure of these historic buildings only intensified. While Alex Cooper entertained the notion of selling both properties as a combined parcel, the individual bids ultimately reigned supreme, showcasing the distinct appeal of each building on its own.
For Ed Gunts, a seasoned freelance writer and former architecture critic for The Baltimore Sun, this auction was a poignant reminder of the city’s rich architectural heritage. With a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for design, Gunts has long been a champion of preserving Baltimore’s architectural treasures, making him a respected voice in the local community.
In the heart of Mount Vernon, where history and modernity converge, the legacy of Rita St. Clair lives on through these timeless buildings, each a testament to her enduring influence on the world of design. As new chapters unfold for these storied properties, one thing remains certain—the spirit of creativity and innovation that St. Clair infused into every space will continue to inspire for generations to come.
