500 Grand

500 Grand is a multi-property space situated at 5th and Grand in Kansas City’s Old Town neighborhood, a cherished commercial district. Built in 1927, the buildings once hosted a range of retailers, barbers, tailors, and saloons. However, a deeper dive into its history reveals a more unique story.

The second floor of the building was once the site of the North Side Democratic Club, established in 1928 by infamous Kansas City gangster Johnny Lazia. The club aimed to mobilize local voters in support of a specific Democratic agenda orchestrated by political boss Tom Pendergast.

Lazia’s legacy in Kansas City is a mix of crime and philanthropy. He negotiated with Al Capone to position Kansas City as a key bootlegging hub, and he is often linked to the notorious 1933 Union Station Massacre. Despite his criminal ties, Lazia’s affable demeanor and dedication to the community earned him the nickname “Brother John.” Following his murder in 1934, his funeral was said to be the largest ever held in Kansas City.

By 1980, the North Side Democratic Club had closed its doors, and the complex at 500 Grand was acquired by Gooch Brake and Equipment Company. After falling into vacancy and neglect, the buildings remained abandoned until 2011, when we seized the opportunity for revitalization.

We purchased the four-building complex in collaboration with Kansas City-based iCON Architecture and iCON Fabrication, two firms specializing in design and millwork for commercial and residential projects. This redevelopment would enable both firms, which had previously operated separately, to consolidate their operations under one roof.

Despite years of neglect, we recognized the potential to restore 500 Grand and its adjacent buildings to their original splendor. The tin ceilings were rusted from persistent roof leaks, walls had been damaged by forklifts, and the storefronts had been replaced with brick.

Using historic photographs as our guide, we carefully added new windows and storefronts while preserving the building’s character. We reconstructed the original façade and revitalized the interior with amenities that honor the building’s historic purpose.