Today we’d like to introduce you to John Berglund.
Hi John, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Trained as both an aerospace engineer and architect, John Berglund spent 17 years as an architect specializing in elementary school facility design. It was during this period that he developed a deep appreciation for Downtown St. Louis, a place he has been committed to ever since.
A lifelong St. Louisan, John’s journey has been shaped by long-standing friendships and entrepreneurial ventures. He first met Jim McKelvey over 35 years ago, sparking a friendship that later evolved into business collaborations. In 2011, John took the helm of Jim’s struggling company, Mira Conference, and successfully turned it profitable within three years. Building on that momentum, he founded Starwood Group in 2016 to focus on real estate development in Downtown St. Louis. Inspired by the collaborative spirit of Square’s offices in California and supported by city and historic incentives, John and his partners transformed The Post into a landmark project that reflects both innovation and community.
John and his wife, Jenny Reed, have raised two children and have called the Central West End home for more than 35 years. Outside of work, John is an avid runner and cyclist—you can often spot him running along Forsyth Boulevard or biking through Forest Park.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
When you’re in a position of leadership, challenges are inevitable. During the $70 million historic renovation of our building, we faced the kinds of surprises that often come with restoring century-old structures—unforeseen conditions, budget pressures, and the constant need to keep the project on track. Then came an even greater test: the COVID-19 pandemic. Material shortages, supply chain delays, and escalating costs threatened the project’s momentum in ways no one could have anticipated.
Leasing the commercial space in a post-COVID market brought its own set of challenges, but the strength of our vision proved itself. Because the building was thoughtfully designed from the ground up, it now stands as a highly attractive home for innovative tech companies eager to grow in St. Louis. What began as a project full of hurdles has become a cornerstone for the city’s next generation of entrepreneurs.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
With a foundation in architecture, I approach development as both a craft and an art form. Each project is guided by a creative mindset, where we seek out “wow moments”—six distinct experiences within the building that continue to inspire and engage. The process itself is a collaborative work of art, weaving together the skills of architects, artists, craftsmen, and laborers, all contributing to the living tapestry of historic preservation.
In reorienting the building to the north, we made a deliberate, symbolic gesture toward North St. Louis. Too often, development has turned its back on this part of the city; instead, we chose to embrace it. As both artist and developer, I see creativity as a bridge—one that not only preserves history but also deepens a sense of community and belonging.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
My architectural education taught me that design is never a solo pursuit—it is strengthened through collaboration and thoughtful critique. Throughout my career, I’ve worked to foster environments where every voice is heard and respected, knowing that the best ideas often emerge from collective dialogue. This spirit of openness and support has been a constant thread in my work, shaping not only the design process but also the success of each project.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thepoststl.com
- Instagram: @thepostbuilding
- Facebook: @thepostbuilding
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-berglund-61196b8/
- Youtube: https://youtu.be/pEnc1HLouUc
- Other: https://www.downtownnorthstl.com/
