Kansas City Art Institute Shows Interest in Historic Mansion Amid Demolition Controversy
Historic KC mansion at center of demolition fight may have a buyer. Here’s what to know
Kansas City Star
Image: Kansas City Star
The Kansas City Art Institute is considering purchasing a 113-year-old mansion in Southmoreland, Kansas City, which has been at the center of a demolition dispute. The Vawter brothers, who inherited the property, have sought to demolish it, but local preservationists have fought to protect it, leading to a potential resolution of the ongoing conflict.
- 01The mansion, built in 1913, is located at 4526 Warwick Blvd. and spans 7,400 square feet.
- 02The Vawter brothers inherited the property in 2020 and argue that restoration costs are prohibitive.
- 03The mansion has been placed on the Kansas City Register of Historic Places, complicating demolition efforts.
- 04The Historic Preservation Commission denied the Vawters' demolition request, which will expire in November 2023.
- 05The Kansas City Art Institute's interest may relate to its plans for a project connecting its campus to local museums.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The Kansas City Art Institute has expressed interest in acquiring the 113-year-old mansion located at 4526 Warwick Blvd. in Southmoreland, Kansas City, which has been embroiled in a demolition battle. The 7,400-square-foot home, built in 1913, has been owned by the Vawter family for 65 years. The brothers, Steve and Matt Vawter, inherited the property in 2020 and have sought to demolish it, claiming restoration would be financially unfeasible. However, local preservationists, notably the Southmoreland Neighborhood Association, successfully had the mansion listed on the Kansas City Register of Historic Places, leading to the Historic Preservation Commission denying the brothers' request to raze the structure. This denial will expire in November 2023, after which the Vawters could proceed with demolition. Critics have accused the brothers of
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The potential sale of the mansion to the Kansas City Art Institute could preserve a historic site and enhance local cultural connectivity, impacting community identity and tourism.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Should historic buildings be preserved even if restoration costs are high?
Connecting to poll...
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.