Transformation of Kansas City’s Epperson House Begins

Categories: College University AthleticsCollege/University News

Exterior view of the historic Epperson House in Kansas City

News Summary

The University of Missouri-Kansas City has announced plans to revitalize the historic Epperson House into a boutique hotel. This stunning 1920s mansion, once a gathering spot for students, will feature a café, spa, and event space while preserving its rich history. The project aims to enhance community engagement and enrich local experiences, making it a delightful new addition to Kansas City. The redevelopment process will incorporate historic preservation efforts, keeping the spirit of the mansion alive as it invites visitors into its enchanting ambiance.

Exciting Transformation Ahead for Kansas City’s Historic Epperson House

Kansas City is buzzing with excitement as the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) has announced a game-changing plan for the iconic Epperson House! Located right at the southern edge of the UMKC campus, this historic mansion, which has been vacant for more than a decade, is set for a bright and revitalized future.

A Glance at the Past

The Epperson House, a stunning 1920s Tudor-style mansion, was once a lively hub for students, serving as both a dormitory and a conservatory space. But since it closed its doors, it has fallen into disrepair, missing its place as a gathering spot for the community. Luckily, that’s about to change.

The Big Reveal

On a sunny Wednesday morning, the announcement revealed plans to transform the mansion into a chic 14-room boutique hotel. This isn’t just any hotel; it promises to have several fantastic amenities, including a cozy café to sip on your morning brew, a luxurious hydrothermal spa for some pampering, and a full-service restaurant for those late-night cravings. There will even be a small library bar where you can unwind with a good book, and an intimate event space perfect for all kinds of gatherings.

A Vision for the Community

The team behind this incredible project, led by hospitality expert Jen Gulvik, has ambitious dreams for the hotel and its surroundings. Part of the vision includes fun community programming such as yoga on the lawn, creating an inviting vibe that people in the neighborhood can enjoy, alongside enriching the student experience.

Building Up for the Future

In 2023, UMKC took an important step by issuing a Request for Proposals to find a developer who could breathe new life into Epperson House. Recognizing that the house was no longer suitable for educational purposes, UMKC is thrilled to partner with Sunflower Development Group, who has experience in preserving historical sites, to restore this treasured building.

Bringing History Back to Life

The Epperson House is not just any old building; it’s tied to the legacy of local insurance magnate Uriah Epperson, who constructed this impressive mansion nearly a century ago. With its grand 54 rooms and extraordinary features—like a vintage indoor swimming pool, a billiard room, a grand ballroom, and even a custom organ—this house is a hidden gem waiting to shine again.

Preservation to the Forefront

To ensure that the house’s rich history is preserved, plans involve hiring a historic preservationist to help maintain its architectural integrity while the project moves ahead. This team will also be applying for state and federal historic tax credits to aid in the reconstruction while emphasizing the importance of keeping history alive.

Exciting Times Ahead

The redevelopment comes at a perfect time, especially with the upcoming KC Streetcar extension, which will end right at the university. Interest in the surrounding area is sure to increase, bringing in visitors and locals alike to enjoy what promises to be a delightful addition to the Kansas City community.

The Ghostly Lore of Epperson House

And for those intrigued by tales of the supernatural, the mansion comes with its own spooky lore. Some say it might be haunted, possibly by the ghost of an organ student who once lived and died in the house, making it not only a destination for luxury and relaxation but perhaps a sprinkle of ghostly adventure!

Final Thoughts

As plans unfold, it’s clear that the Epperson House is set to become a vibrant part of Kansas City’s landscape once again. With its transformation into a boutique hotel, it is poised to bring a blend of history, hospitality, and a strong sense of community. Stay tuned, Kansas City; an exciting new chapter for the Epperson House is just around the corner!