The Architect Behind the St. Louis Gateway Arch: Eero Saarinen

St. Louis, Missouri is home to one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States: the Gateway Arch. Designed by the renowned Finnish-American architect, Eero Saarinen, the Gateway Arch has become a symbol of the city and a testament to Saarinen's architectural brilliance. This article will explore the story behind this magnificent structure and the man behind it.

Eero Saarinen: A Pioneer in Modern Architecture

Eero Saarinen, born in 1910 in ?bo, Finland, was a key figure in the modern architecture movement of the mid-20th century. Saarinen's design sensibilities were marked by a blend of organic forms and futuristic ingenuity, which he applied to projects that spanned from corporate headquarters to experimental airports.

A Mission for a Monument

From 1947 to 1948, the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, located in St. Louis, Missouri, was seeking a design for a monument that would celebrate the westward expansion of the United States. In this nationwide competition, Eero Saarinen submitted a design that was both innovative and awe-inspiring. His vision was for a massive stainless steel arch that would rank among the tallest structures of its time.

The Design and Construction

Contrary to what some might think, Eero Saarinen's design for the Gateway Arch went through several iterations and changes. The original design, with plans for a single arch divided into two, was not ultimately selected. Instead, the final design that was realized in 1965 was a sleek, single tapered arch that stood exactly 630 feet (190 meters) tall. This arch symbolizes the spirit of the westward expansion and the ambitions of the early pioneers.

Construction and Legacy

Construction of the Gateway Arch began in 1963 and was completed on October 28, 1965. This ambitious project was constructed at a cost of less than 15 million dollars, making it an exceptionally cost-effective and efficient construction project for its time. The arch's purity of form and the engineering challenges it posed continue to make it a marvel of modern architecture and engineering. Today, it stands as a beloved and essential part of St. Louis' identity and a national historical site that draws millions of visitors every year.

The Architect's Other Works

Eero Saarinen's impact on modern architecture extends far beyond the Gateway Arch. His other notable works include:

The TWA Terminal at JFK Airport, New York The Hoover Tower atStanford University The General Motors Technical Center in Warren, Michigan The Ingleside Apartment Hotel in Minneapolis, Minnesota The Chapel of the Good Shepherd at Suquamish, Washington

These projects, among others, continue to inspire and awe, showcasing Saarinen's unique vision and his ability to seamlessly integrate modernist aesthetics with functional design.

Conclusion: Eero Saarinen's Legacy

Eero Saarinen's legacy as an architect is well-earned. The Gateway Arch stands as a testament to his ability to create iconic and timeless structures that capture the spirit and aspiration of their times. Through his innovative designs and his mastery of form and function, Saarinen has left behind a body of work that continues to inspire and captivate people around the world. The Gateway Arch in St. Louis is not just a monument; it is a symbol of the American Dream and a beacon of innovative architectural design.