LIVE/WORK URBAN INFILL
CROSSROADS, KCMO | ARCH 209 | SPRING 2016
Among the streets of a growing and vibrant Kansas City, the Crossroads District remains an area in need of revitalization. City blocks full of abandoned and run-down buildings, empty lots, and untapped potential sit in contrast to the liveliness of Downtown Kansas City and the Crown Center. Along the streets of the Crossroads, however, there are signs of progress –- new construction, abundant art galleries, and a handful of up-and-coming restaurants have already started making their mark. Once empty voids have turned into residential units for unique and diverse individuals, late night concert venues, and prime storefront locations. The Crossroads District seems to be making a comeback.
Along East 18th Street – the main connection between the Crossroads and Jazz District – an empty lot has rooted itself between a revitalized historic building and a disc golf shop. Across the street, the beginnings of a leather goods store and an artist gallery show signs that rehabilitation is on the block. It is in this empty lot where real progress begins to happen. Vitsoe, a renowned furniture and storage company, has recently taken ownership of the property at 505 East 18th Street. In place of the untrimmed grass and mess of growing vines, new showrooms, office space, and apartments will stand as a precedent for what can be accomplished with untapped potential.
With a setback, double-height main floor, Vitsoe’s showroom opens its doors to those strolling down the sidewalk. Adjacent to the showroom, a floating office and design studio lightly touch the ground as they protrude toward the street. The floating office mass creates a semi-enclosed, art-filled alleyway underneath which lends respect to Art Alley, just half a block to the east. Located on the third floor, two apartments offer occupants stunning views of the Kansas City skyline and an open, modern aesthetic. With the new Live/Work KC, a void has been filled in one of Kansas City’s most diverse and interesting locations. Setting a precedent for how previously abandoned spaces can come back to life, Vitsoe’s new showroom, office, and apartment spaces will leave a lasting impact on the health and quality of the Crossroads District.
