Cupples decided to build a mansion befitting his great wealth> The result was Cupples House, completed in 1890 after two years of construction. No expense was spared on the great ornate stone house, with craftsmen and materials imported to provide the ultimate touch. This is evident in the exquisite interior wood paneling and-carving and fine stained glass windows, as well as the ornamental carving of the stonework on the exterior architectural details.

After Cupples´ death in 1912, the house was sold and used as offices of a telegraphers´ union for many years. It came into the possession of Saint Louis University in 1946. Several threats of demolition were warded off due to the efforts of Father Maurice McNamee, S.J., who is responsible for its restoration and opening for public and university use.

The Samual Cupples House on West Pine demonstrates all of the features of the Richardsonian Romanesques style popular among the self-made millionaires of St. Louis´ Golden Age. Of particular note are the coupled Romanesque arches above short, Richardsonian columns, the towers, the sharply pitched roof, and, most important, the coarse textured stone.