After

Before

Roaster’s Block

Location

Kansas City, MO

Client

O’Reilly Development Company, LLC

Size

217,160 SF

The Boss:
North building built in 1917
79,520 SF

Swofford:
South building built in 1899
137,640 SF

Units

146 total units

Completion

2016

Amenities

Social Lounge with Fireplace & TVs
Heated Outdoor Swimming Pool
Coffee & Espresso Bar
Firepit Lounge Area
Fitness Center
Yoga Studio

Awards

2017 Property of the Year
AAKC

2017 Project of the Year: Adaptive Reuse
Multifamily Executive Awards

2016 Adaptive Reuse – Honors
Historic Kansas City Preservation Awards

FEATURED PROJECT, HISTORIC RESTORATION, MULTI-FAMILY

In the Garment District of Downtown Kansas City, a historic redevelopment project took place, involving the two buildings that had served as the home of Folgers Coffee Company factory for over six decades. Originally built in 1899 and 1917, the buildings underwent a remarkable transformation, culminating in the creation of the impressive $35 million Roaster’s Block development, which was unveiled in 2016.

As part of this ambitious project, 146 market-rate apartments were meticulously crafted, each averaging around 1,000 square feet in size.

To achieve this, the project entailed demolishing the factory production equipment that had been used before the site was vacated in 2012. Additionally, a sizable silo structure situated between the two buildings was replaced with an inviting open courtyard, featuring a pool and designated gathering areas for residents’ enjoyment.

In order to enhance the living experience, various amenities were included in the Roaster’s Block development, such as a fitness center, social lounge, and a coffee bar.

Moreover, the larger south building of the former factory plant now provides underground parking options on basement and sub-basement levels. As for the north building, it is served by surface lots, which also accommodate any overflow parking needs from the south building.