Sterick Building in Memphis, TN

Known as the 'Queen of Memphis,' the Sterick Building is a towering icon with an aura of quiet majesty, standing resolutely in the heart of downtown Memphis, Tennessee.

A Gothic architectural triumph, it was once the tallest structure in the South and still retains a regal presence on the Memphis skyline. A visit to this architectural gem stands as an ode to the city’s historical and cultural richness and is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Erected in 1930, the Sterick Building sprawls across an impressive acreage. This 29-story edifice was christened 'Sterick' as a portmanteau of the names of the original owners, R.E. Sterling and Wyatt Hedrick. It was originally inhabited by prestigious offices such as law firms and cotton brokers, and even housed a barber shop, drug store, and an illustrious bank lobby on its ground floor. Today, the Sterick Building, though vacant, echoes its own history, resurfacing nostalgia from its prime years.

The Sterick Building's artful blend of architectural styles is a major highlight. With architectural nuances of Gothic Revival and setbacks reminiscent of Art Deco, the building offers a visual feast for onlookers. Its limestone exterior boasts a wealth of intricate details, including elaborately designed spires that crown its green-hued pyramidal roof, lending the structure an ethereal charm. The grandeur continues inside with a striking two-story vaulted lobby, intricately decorated with carved travertine and a once-lustrous chandelier.

What truly sets the Sterick Building apart is the breathtaking panoramic view of Memphis it offers. Back in its heyday, a humble coffee shop sat on the top floor, which was a go-to locale for locals and tourists to glimpse the Mississippi River and the sparkling Memphis skyline. Though currently unoccupied, the Sterick Building's iconic stature continues to captivate those who relish the past and appreciate architectural beauty.

In conclusion, the Sterick Building is an imposing testament to Memphis’ past, a towering embodiment of the city's history and architectural prowess. Visiting this structure provides a unique chance to step back into time and grasp the vibrant city history that shaped Memphis. While its interior may remain silent for now, its exterior continues to narrate a tale that speaks of grandeur, of history, of a time when it was, indeed, the 'Queen of Memphis.' The Sterick Building deserves a spot on the itinerary of anyone visiting Memphis, for it is a silent sentinel that has watched over the city for nearly a century and a quintessential piece of Memphis history.