A multi-million-dollar renovation of the historic Town Pavilion building is underway at the northeast corner of 12th and Main streets in downtown Kansas City, Mo.

Major improvements to the 38-story, 180.1 m skyscraper’s common area began on December 7, 2020.

The plans include completely renovating the building’s rotunda, lobby and common areas, adding a concierge center, upgrading retail storefronts, installing art-driven video walls and museum-like artwork and upgrading security features and equipment.

“We’ve been planning and working toward these upgrades for several years, so we’re more than excited to be underway. The objective is to make the lobby have art-like museum qualities to enhance its function as a Class A office entry. These improvements will continue making Town Pavilion Kansas City’s premiere Class A office destination,” said Jon Copaken, principal at Copaken Brooks.

In addition to the aesthetic improvements and new finishes more attune to a modern office setting – which will incorporate exposed concrete, bright white walls, and natural wood tones – security turnstiles with a visitor management system will be installed to elevate the building beyond current Class A office standards.

“There is an undeniable energy along the streetcar line in the heart of Kansas City. The modernization and innovative changes to the building will allow for a one-of-a-kind tenant experience focused on employers, employees, and visitors. It positions Town Pavilion as the place to be for the next generation of office users in the heart of Downtown,” said Ryan Biery, senior vice president of leasing at Copaken Brooks.

“New edges, forms and shapes will sweep through the first floor of the Town Pavilion, announcing that something new has arrived with a cohesive simplicity that unites from space to space, north to south, Main Street to Walnut,” said Trevor Hoiland, lead designer at Burns and McDonnell, the design firm behind the building’s renovations.

JE Dunn is serving as general contractor on the project while AVI Systems will install the updated audio and visual equipment.

Retail tenants will remain open during the renovation, which is slated for completion in June 2021.