Presidential Effect

April 3, 2025

Words by Meg Hilburn | Photos by Chris Douglas

A Georgian Revival is sensitively reimagined, revitalizing a Saint Louis-area legacy.

e’d driven by the historic beauty with the Corinthian columns for years, smitten with its classic architecture. Though it had sat vacant for 13 years, Terry Crow, current mayor of University City in Saint Louis, was called to be its steward. This decision would revive a Saint Louis legacy—the Rand Mansion.

The home, designed by renowned architect Theodore Link in 1911, is immediately commanding—in fact, it could be described as presidential. Past visitors include former presidents Theodore Roosevelt and Woodrow Wilson. When Crow bought it, it admittedly needed attention. But he jumped in, knowing he wanted to make it home.

Considering Crow’s roles as mayor, attorney, business owner and father, “home” needed to function as a multi-use space for a variety of scenarios, including raising two kids, lively social entertaining, and at times, political fundraising. He wanted to create a space that was true to the architecture and the history, while also making it very livable and welcoming.

Enter Will Brown of Will Brown Interiors, who is known for embracing bold color and pattern in his designs, yet also for carefully balancing the brave moments with soothing harmony by applying the principles of Feng Shui. His unique balance of warmth and comfort juxtaposed with drama and esprit de corps quickly became the steady guiding force behind the design.

Brown’s thought process starts by mapping out the flow of energy in a space. The impetus for “The Rand’s” vibe stemmed naturally from the dynamic color palette inspired by Crow’s art collection. However, Brown knew this energy would need to be anchored with a calm base and sophisticated layering. So, he created a clean canvas of warm and creamy neutrals for the walls and ceilings. Next, he designed stunning 10-foot-long window treatments unified with a tailored Greek key lead edge detail.

Clean-lined furniture pieces mix with imaginatively reupholstered vintage accents throughout, juxtaposing enduring comfort with moments of serious drama. Subtle patterns and textures layer in to create a cohesive aesthetic that is interesting but never overwhelming. Brown’s master styling shines through accessories and artwork perfectly placed. A calm flow can be felt as one moves through the house from the traditional center hall.

To the left, the vast rectangular living room allows for conversation and entertaining to happen simultaneously through distinct zones.

“There’s so much to see and experience here,” Brown says. “It’s so large. Zoning provides intimate areas that invite guests to connect and converse, and also space to play.”

In the music zone, Crow’s grand piano is ready for impromptu performances during gatherings.

In the seating zone, matching sofas in luxurious charcoal pinstripe and fawn velvets invite conversations.

“Matching sofas bring balance into a space,” Brown explains. “They allow everyone to feel equally included.”

The vibrant colors in the artwork—bold teal, rich reds, copper and gold—are echoed by the accents, creating a cohesive, dynamic palette. Plentiful accent chairs ensure there’s always room for one more.

Just off the living room, the sunroom is bathed each morning in eastern light.

“The sunroom was designed to be a peaceful haven,” Brown notes. “The energy of the morning can uplift your day.”

Two vintage rattan wingback chairs with plush red velvet seats add warm texture and invite the family to enjoy morning coffee, read or meditate. Charming vintage accessories and plants delight.

The facing dining room invites connection with welcoming, grounded energy. To create an atmosphere that could simultaneously host Taco Tuesday and pull off the grandeur of Rand Mansion, Brown selected a deep, rich hue—Sherwin-Williams’ Copper Mountain—for the walls.

“It adds drama and comfort to the feeling in the room, making it versatile for family meals and formal dinners alike,” he explains. In the evening, it glows under the grand crystal chandelier.

“The design of the home as Will created it works so well with how we live our lives,” Crow shares. “We can accommodate up to 150 people for cocktails, but at the same time, have an intimate evening with a few friends in one of the sitting areas. I’m amazed that an architect in 1911 built a home with such incredible open architecture on the first floor. When the sunlight comes through the windows, the care put into making it a home just shines.”

Interior Designer: Will Brown Interiors, @willbrowninteriors