In 2007 Architechniques, Ltd. was hired by Mr. Tony Gualdoni to provide services to create a feasibility study and estimates for renovating his neighborhood grocery store.  Louie's P&R is located in Herrin’s historic downtown. 

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Tony wanted to turn his family owned grocery and deli into a Tuscan styled delicatessen.  Our ultimate design included two new accessible public restrooms as well as seating space for 30 patrons, and a small market area for the sale of authentic Italian products from the Calcaterra's Foods in Herrin and the "Hill" area in St. Louis. 

 

The existing deli-meat counter would remain and in addition to the long standing tradition as being the go to place for meats, sausage and cold cuts, it would serve sandwiches, soups and other deli foods on site as well as for take-out.  The concept of the design involved restoring the original stamped tin ceiling, exposing the existing brick and masonry walls and building out interior spaces to resemble an Italian market.  During demolition we were met with a delightful surprise.  The contractors discovered a painted “ghost sign” advertising "Gold Medal Flour" which dates to 1918.

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Tony sold the business to Aaron and Julie (Ridgway) Christ.  Julie is from Herrin and is a part of the Calcaterra family.  The Christ's have since expanded the services of Louie's P&R to include BBQ spices and supplies, entering food competitions, and selling items online.