A multimillion dollar renovation and reconstruction were undertaken in 2018. RBLD’s goal was to dramatically reveal the historic war memorial to passersby after dark by creating a respectful yet spirited nighttime revelation of the building, sculpture work, and other symbolic imagery. The lighting design also needed to address sore wayfinding and orientation while providing light for special nighttime events on the Court’s ceremonial lawn.

The building’s facade was dramatically articulated from the colonnade’s base. Luminaires were hidden within stone niches and planters, while at the grand stairs, custom-matching granite boxes were fabricated for the concealment of the light sources. Four monumental sculptures representing figures of Loyalty, Vision, Courage, and Sacrifice by artist Walker Hancock were unveiled dramatically on the north and south sides of the building. Bas-reliefs adorning the Court’s obelisk were rendered with grazing light concealed below them. The existing granite walls framing the courtyard were renewed. After night falls, integrated light sources solemnly reveal the names of St Louisans who lost their lives in the Great War.