Westrock Warehouse

Historic KC building given new life

Kansas City, MO

The Midland Apartments project in downtown Kansas City is a shining example of historic preservation and urban revitalization. With a $27.5 million investment, a 12-story, 80,000 SF office building was thoughtfully converted into 135 modern, affordable apartment homes, providing much-needed housing options in the heart of the city.
The transformation began with the careful demolition of outdated office spaces, making way for new residential units while preserving the building’s historic character. The exterior restoration included partial window infill, meticulous tuckpointing, masonry repairs, and the installation of new joint sealants to ensure both durability and visual appeal.

Inside, the apartments were designed for comfort and style, featuring carpeted corridors, luxury vinyl tile (LVT) flooring, custom cabinetry, and solid surface countertops. The first floor was reimagined as a welcoming common area, complete with wood, marble, and tile flooring, architectural wood wall paneling, a wheelchair lift for accessibility, and a cozy fireplace.

A unique aspect of this project was the restoration and reuse of original materials. Marble from the elevator lobbies was carefully removed, sent off-site for repolishing, and then reinstalled to maintain the building’s historic elegance. Brass elevator doors, the front door turnstile, and other interior brass features were also refurbished, adding a touch of classic charm.

The project team overcame several challenges, including the discovery and safe removal of asbestos hidden above a false ceiling. Working within the constraints of a compact, historic structure required creative problem-solving and precise coordination.

To meet the owner’s goal of an expedited move-in, the construction schedule was adjusted, allowing for early access and a faster project turnover. The result is a vibrant, affordable housing community that breathes new life into a landmark building, contributing to the ongoing revitalization of downtown Kansas City.

Project Facts

Industry Sector: Residential
Cost: $26,707,363
Size: 80,058 SF
Delivery Method: Design-Bid-Build / Hard Bid
Self-Perform: Demo, Concrete
Owner: Midland Residential LLC
Architect: Helix Architecture + Design