Starks Building

The Starks Building is a 14-story office structure in Beaux-Arts style located at Fourth Street and Muhammad Ali Boulevard in downtown Louisville. Its cream-colored brick facade features classical ornaments including acanthus leaves, lion heads, and urns throughout the exterior.

The building was designed in 1913 by the architectural firm of Daniel Burnham, following Chicago School principles blended with classical details. A major expansion in 1926 added a new wing that transformed the original U-shaped layout into a rectangular structure with a central light court.

The ornamental details carved into the facade, such as acanthus leaves and lion heads, reflect the design language of early 20th-century commercial prosperity in Louisville. These decorative elements were typical of buildings that conveyed wealth and stability to the business community of that era.

The building sits at a central location within the city's commercial district and is easy to reach on foot from surrounding areas. It connects directly to Fourth Street Live, which provides convenient access to shops and dining options in the immediate vicinity.

The building is currently being transformed into a mixed-use residential and cultural space combining housing with studio and gallery areas for local artists. This conversion makes it a notable example of how historic office structures are finding new purpose in the city's cultural landscape.

Location: Louisville

Architects: Daniel Burnham

Architectural style: Beaux-Arts

GPS coordinates: 38.25111,-85.75667

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:23