Power and Light as the one of the finestexamples of art deco architecture in theUnited states, Historic Power & LightBuilding offers luxurious high-riseapartment buildings. This 36 storyskyscraper opened its doors in 1931 asthe headquarters of Kansas City Power& Light Company.

HISTORY

November 1, 1930

HISTORY

September 26, 1931

HISTORY

In 1930 excavation began on what would be the tallest building in Missouri for 50 years.The 36 story skyscraper opened in 1931 as the headquarters of the Kansas City Power &Light Company. It is recognized as one of the finest examples of art deco architecture inthe United States and is a monument to innovation of it's time.

Upon completion, it was the tallest building west of the Mississippi River, and consumedthe equivalent of 6,500 homes’ worth of power. The large display windows along 14th andBaltimore were designed to showcase new electronic devices and appliances to illustratethe many uses of electricity. A two-story interior auditorium was used to conductdemonstrations of how electricity and these appliances could improve people's lives.

KCP&L spared no expense with the construction of the building, which has a reinforcedconcrete structure and an exterior clad in Indiana limestone. The building boasts severalsignature features. The main focus of the tower was it's novel lighting display; a 21-footlantern, equipped with floodlights to create a luminous, flamelike effect. A two-storygrand lobby space is rich with Art Deco ornamentation. Marble and granite form animpressive canvas for the decorative plaster moldings and custom white metalwork ofthe foyer.

At it's completion; the Power and Light Building was an exciting and impressivemonument and remains the most recognizable and distinctive silhouette in the city'sskyline.

106 W 14th St, Kansas City, MO 64105

(816) 221-4300