Moore’s Downtown

The homeowners envisioned creating an inspirational, signature home perched high on the hill of KC’s kitschy Westside overlooking the downtown skyline. They wanted striking interior details, featuring cutting-edge technology that would complement traditional architectural elements to ensure that this iconic home’s position would sit as an awe-inspiring symbol for years to come. They planned for this four-level contemporary home wrapped in matte black and dressed with phantom black interiors to function as their private residence and home office.

Wanting something completely original for the 37-foot-tall mural installation spanning all four floors, they posted an art contest on social media encouraging artists and designers to contribute ideas. Artists were asked to incorporate local themes with a specific color palette. Nationwide submittals resulted in a dramatic piece showcased as one traverses from the lower level to the sky bar.

The homeowners wanted a place where they could entertain and offer their unique views to others. They envisioned their guests feeling welcome, but also special and pampered. Their company’s design studio is situated on the lower level, while the remaining three floors provide areas designed to live, entertain and celebrate the city. All this while still keeping the historic integrity of the neighborhood.

As designers, they embraced the historic value of Westside, while longing to create something new and exciting. Taking the freedom to explore, experiment and challenge design norms, nearly every inch of the property inspires. Although dark and moody on the first few floors, the rooftop sky bar—in stark white—highlights the incredible 270-degree views from every angle, while allowing the city lights and landscape to become the color that dominates the eye.

Building up allowed each level to have a specific function and feel, and reached higher for those outstanding multi-level city views. First-floor rooms include a study, powder room, lounge, wine cellar, kitchen/dining and great room with soaring 21-foot ceilings. The private second floor contains two guest bedrooms and the primary bedroom/bath with a steam shower, his/her closets and a freestanding tub with a large skylight overhead. On the third floor, the city comes to life, highlighting vaulted ceilings, a bar, a powder bath, a lounge and two separate rooftop decks. The west deck is for more intimate conversations, while the east deck features seating areas, custom-fabricated fire pits, and enough room to dance against the backdrop of city lights.