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Kansas City Transforms Historic Epperson House into Boutique Hotel

The Epperson House will soon transition into an upscale boutique hotel, retaining its historic architectural charm.

News Summary

The historic Epperson House in Kansas City is set for an exciting transformation into a boutique hotel, featuring 14 rooms, a café, a small library bar, and a hydrothermal spa. This revitalization comes from a partnership between UMKC and Sunflower Development Group, aiming to preserve its rich history while introducing modern amenities. The project also focuses on community engagement, leveraging nearby streetcar service to attract visitors. With plans for financial support through tax credits, the Epperson House is on the brink of a remarkable new chapter as a luxurious destination for guests.

Kansas City Welcomes Exciting Plans for Epperson House Boutique Hotel

Have you heard the buzz around Epperson House? This historic mansion, sitting proudly at 5200 Cherry St. on the grounds of the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC), is finally set for a fresh and exciting transformation. After years of lying empty, the mansion will soon become a charming boutique hotel thanks to a collaboration between UMKC and the Sunflower Development Group, working alongside a seasoned hospitality expert. The anticipation is palpable as the plans begin to unfold!

A Vision of Elegance

This beautifully designed hotel, featuring 14 rooms, is more than just a place to spend the night. Guests will be delighted to find a cozy café, a small library bar perfect for evening relaxation, and a full-service restaurant. The jewel of the offerings? An intimate event space ideal for special gatherings. To top it all off, a wellness haven awaits with a stunning hydrothermal spa. Imagine unwinding with various body and facial treatments, enjoying ancient European baths, and indulging in hot and cold therapies. It sounds like a dream!

A Piece of History

The Epperson House is quite the architectural gem. Originally built in the early 1920s for businessman Uriah Epperson and his wife, Mary, this stunning mansion showcases a blend of Tudor and Gothic styles. Designed by French architect Horace LaPierre, the piece of history once boasted an astounding 54 rooms, six bathrooms, multiple elevators, and even an indoor pool! It’s hard to believe that such grandeur has been sitting unused since 2011, frequently considered one of the most endangered buildings in Kansas City.

A Bright Future Ahead

UMKC has been actively searching for the right developer for the Epperson House since at least 2020. The importance of preserving this local historic treasure cannot be overstated. It has served several purposes over the decades, from being a dormitory for Navy cadets during World War II to a residence hall for various university programs.

The development team’s commitment to maintaining the mansion’s historic charm while ushering in a modern touch is commendable. With a wealth of experience in adaptive reuse and redevelopment under their belt—including successful projects like the Ambassador Hotel and Cosmopolitan Lofts—the Sunflower Development Group is sure to honor the legacy of the Epperson House.

Community Collaboration is Key

One of the top priorities for the project is community engagement. The aim is to unite the neighborhood and university community, creating a space that everyone can enjoy. With plans to leverage the upcoming Kansas City Streetcar service to attract visitors, the hotel is poised to be a fabulous addition to the area.

Financial Support in the Works

Funds for this exciting venture will likely come from a mix of state and federal historic tax credits. By seeking financial partnerships, the developers aim to make the transformation as smooth as possible while preserving the home’s unique features, such as the intriguing indoor swimming pool and a reported tunnel connecting different wings.

The Haunting Allure

Adding to the allure of the Epperson House are the whispers of paranormal activity that surround the mansion. With its rich history and mysterious reputation, the boutique hotel promises to be not just a place to rest your head but also a fascinating adventure for those curious about the unknown.

As this story unfolds, it becomes clear that the Epperson House is on the brink of a captivating new chapter. Kansas City has much to look forward to as this historic landmark comes back to life as a luxurious and unforgettable boutique hotel experience!