The loss of the stately building, constructed between 1826 and 1829, was a blow. Remaining in the ashes were an interior wall of the once-beautiful rotunda, some columns, and dozens of bricks.

But not every brick building in St. Louis retains its rubicund hue. Visit Sugarwitch, in the former Carondelet Bakery Space ( 7726 Virginia ) for a glimpse of ornamental green-glazed brick.

Traditional brick construction is increasingly unsustainable. Some architects think that ‘unloved’ stone from local quarries is the ultimate low-cost, low-carbon building material ...

All solid foundations begin with Stone & Company: ... Stone & Company — Concrete & Building Material: 606 McCormick Ave., Connellsville, PA 15425, 724-221-3404, stoneconcrete.com.