37 West Farnam - 9 Story Building in Blackstone (SWC 37th & Farnam)

[skinzfan23]

Update from wowt cam:

[NEDodger]

I think this is actually one of the projects I’m most excited about around here. This is going to add some nice density/height to act as a bit more of a continual bridge of mid/high rises from Midtown Crossing to UNMC.

[skinzfan23]

Thanks for separating this out, definitely deserves its own thread.

[Louie]

Im worried that the scale may be too large in comparison to the buildings on farnam to the west, but this is definitely a positive development and will increase density drastically for Blackstone.

[Garrett]

Im worried that the scale may be too large in comparison to the buildings on farnam to the west, but this is definitely a positive development and will increase density drastically for Blackstone.

I mean the Cottonwood one block east is 8 stories, so it's just pushing a bit more of that density out.

[Brad]

Thanks for separating this out, definitely deserves its own thread.

You're welcome. Cleaning up that other thread has been on my to-do list for a long time. It was never meant to be a dumping ground for all things Blackstone.

[Louie]

Im worried that the scale may be too large in comparison to the buildings on farnam to the west, but this is definitely a positive development and will increase density drastically for Blackstone.

I mean the Cottonwood one block east is 8 stories, so it's just pushing a bit more of that density out.

Sure, but these will be taller stories for today’s building codes. And the fact that its almost a city block long seems imposing. Especially to the buildings north of it.

[Busguy2010]

Im worried that the scale may be too large in comparison to the buildings on farnam to the west, but this is definitely a positive development and will increase density drastically for Blackstone.

I mean the Cottonwood one block east is 8 stories, so it's just pushing a bit more of that density out.

Sure, but these will be taller stories for today’s building codes. And the fact that its almost a city block long seems imposing. Especially to the buildings north of it.

I was part of the argument against this building (how long ago?) because it is totally out of scale, and maybe moreso texture for the neighborhood. Might be about the same height, but that's not what matters when talking scale in this particular neighborhood. What matters is how long the face of this building will be, especially because its north facing. 37th to 38th is longer than your typical downtown block, which are constantly griped about for being filled with one building. Something doesn't quite add up there.

I think I argued you could fit almost three Blackstone Hotels on the lot this single building will go, which isn't too far off. I think what would have satisfied me would be a mirror image of the scale of the Blackstone Plaza building on the east end, with maybe 5 stories in the middle, and 2-3 stories on the west end.

[MadJack]

Im worried that the scale may be too large in comparison to the buildings on farnam to the west, but this is definitely a positive development and will increase density drastically for Blackstone.

I mean the Cottonwood one block east is 8 stories, so it's just pushing a bit more of that density out.

Sure, but these will be taller stories for today’s building codes. And the fact that its almost a city block long seems imposing. Especially to the buildings north of it.

I was part of the argument against this building (how long ago?) because it is totally out of scale, and maybe moreso texture for the neighborhood. Might be about the same height, but that's not what matters when talking scale in this particular neighborhood. What matters is how long the face of this building will be, especially because its north facing. 37th to 38th is longer than your typical downtown block, which are constantly griped about for being filled with one building. Something doesn't quite add up there.

I think I argued you could fit almost three Blackstone Hotels on the lot this single building will go, which isn't too far off. I think what would have satisfied me would be a mirror image of the scale of the Blackstone Plaza building on the east end, with maybe 5 stories in the middle, and 2-3 stories on the west end.

It'll be fine. One of the hallmarks of the Midtown-Blackstone-UNMC area is a mix of building scales in close proximity to one another. There are literally houses across the street from both the north and south Mutual buildings. This project will help Blackstone far more than it hurts it. Can't wait for it to open!

[nebport5]

Im worried that the scale may be too large in comparison to the buildings on farnam to the west, but this is definitely a positive development and will increase density drastically for Blackstone.

I mean the Cottonwood one block east is 8 stories, so it's just pushing a bit more of that density out.

Sure, but these will be taller stories for today’s building codes. And the fact that its almost a city block long seems imposing. Especially to the buildings north of it.

I was part of the argument against this building (how long ago?) because it is totally out of scale, and maybe moreso texture for the neighborhood. Might be about the same height, but that's not what matters when talking scale in this particular neighborhood. What matters is how long the face of this building will be, especially because its north facing. 37th to 38th is longer than your typical downtown block, which are constantly griped about for being filled with one building. Something doesn't quite add up there.

I think I argued you could fit almost three Blackstone Hotels on the lot this single building will go, which isn't too far off. I think what would have satisfied me would be a mirror image of the scale of the Blackstone Plaza building on the east end, with maybe 5 stories in the middle, and 2-3 stories on the west end.

I'm not quite sure what you're saying here but remember with Mutual's coming redevelopment this whole corridor to UNMC is likely to change in scale and density. Thus in 5-10 years the scale among current existing structures could be moot. I can't imagine a Storz Mansion redevelopment, but to your point about this project's northern facade, Storz won't hurt what's already likely to be a strong presence from Dodge.

I agree with the others expressing excitement for this project as it's a nice departure from the usual banal institutional looking 5 over 1s that we typical say "yeah, but it's a good project".

[Busguy2010]

My point is simple. It doesnt fit because look at every other block in Blackstone. They are all comprised of multiple buildings. Thats what gives Blackstone charm, character. These new buildings coming in lack those qualities.

And to my other point, this is a mega block development. It doesn't make sense (I dont know for certain if its the same people or not) that single building developments would be met with disapproval Downtown, but praised in Blackstone, especially given the neighborhood setting.

Third, I want the city and the developers to try harder, and the citizens to demand better. City should be dividing this lot in two or three. Developers need to be more creative and accepting of imperfect conditions (maybe the streetcar would help with that) so we dont have that "my way or the highway" with the developers that the citizens continually lose to. And the citizens need to demand better. I get it, its replacing a parking lot. What could be better than that? But just because of that fact doesnt mean we need to accept this, frankly, neighborhood character changing development.

[ita]

My point is simple. It doesnt fit because look at every other block in Blackstone. They are all comprised of multiple buildings. Thats what gives Blackstone charm, character. These new buildings coming in lack those qualities.

And to my other point, this is a mega block development. It doesn't make sense (I dont know for certain if its the same people or not) that single building developments would be met with disapproval Downtown, but praised in Blackstone, especially given the neighborhood setting.

Third, I want the city and the developers to try harder, and the citizens to demand better. City should be dividing this lot in two or three. Developers need to be more creative and accepting of imperfect conditions (maybe the streetcar would help with that) so we dont have that "my way or the highway" with the developers that the citizens continually lose to. And the citizens need to demand better. I get it, its replacing a parking lot. What could be better than that? But just because of that fact doesnt mean we need to accept this, frankly, neighborhood character changing development.

Blackstone has already had a 180 degree character change since Jay lund and clarity folks started investing in the neighborhood. Arguably, this new 9 story building is in line with the trendy, hip character Blackstone has developed over the last decade.

This isn't really a megablock development that's cutting off pedestrian access that once existed. This building is confined to half a block of space. It's between 37th and 38th. While I am all for breaking up full city blocks like the old UP site and the state building site, if that ever gets redeveloped, this isn't the brickline at mercantile taking two full city blocks while leaving no pedestrian through ways.

I am not in love with the design but it's better than 90% of the apartment buildings we get downtown/midtown, provides parking in a popular districtwhile creating new ground floor retail/office opportunities, and density. 160 apartments on a half a city block is 3 times more dense than brickline.

[Busguy2010]

Arguably, this new 9 story building is in line with the trendy, hip character Blackstone has developed over the last decade.

I suppose that's mainly the part I don't like about everything that's happening in Blackstone. I feel like the actual business district on Farnam in between 40th and 38th is how it should all be. Even the Blackstone Station, though the building is very simple, they got the scale right with having the two story building in front and separate from the taller building in back... This project to me just feels like a big dump. Just get as many people in as possible at any cost? I don't agree with it.

[Garrett]

It's a 9 story building, not a 100 story supertall. Blackstone will be fine. Omaha needs way more developments in this scale, especially in the more core areas, and fewer on the standard 5 story nothing. I doubt anything like this is about to pop up directly in the main business district on Farnam.

[NEDodger]

If developments had all these restrictions and small targets they had to meet to achieve citizen approval, you’d have no development. Blackstone would be the decrepit strip of Farnam it was 15 years ago. Developers aren’t there to run charity ships. If people want SimCity type perfection (I’m not talking about having standards, but the “perfection” that is often demanded on this site), then I will cheer those critics on to become developers.

[Busguy2010]

Well, it is what it is. The project will happen, and you all know how I will feel about it. There's no convincing me otherwise, so have fun and enjoy the building.

[Athomsfere]

If developments had all these restrictions and small targets they had to meet to achieve citizen approval, you’d have no development. Blackstone would be the decrepit strip of Farnam it was 15 years ago. Developers aren’t there to run charity ships. If people want SimCity type perfection (I’m not talking about having standards, but the “perfection” that is often demanded on this site), then I will cheer those critics on to become developers.

Exactly. Already we have too many restrictions. Cities are built for people They should not be built for aesthetics, cars, or prioritize some "character" over serving people.

We should really be building back more Blackstone's. Where are today's streetcar suburbs? Since we can't, won't and don't build them, I'd say the next best thing is letting these high density things happen and get more people walking and biking to the cool stuff we have done.

[Cermak]

I like that it's 9 floors, but I would of preferred a smaller foot print, but it should still look good and add some height to midtown. To me this is the most anticipated project in Omaha right now besides the Mutual Tower.




Will Blackstone someday look like this ? With high density.

[Cermak]

Saw this the other day, this project is moving along nicely. Working on foundation work, pretty deep hole already dug. Right now this is the most interesting and exciting project in Omaha until the Mutual tower starts.

[ita]

For such a substantial project, I can't find anything online, outside of news articles, about this project. Clarity doesn't even list it as a project on their website. I was trying to find out if the architect has any more information regarding this project and there is nothing listed on Alley Poyner's website. I am really excited about this one, and I hope that scale doesn't shrink with the inflation and interest increases since the project was approved.

[Scuzz]

Well, it is what it is. The project will happen, and you all know how I will feel about it. There's no convincing me otherwise, so have fun and enjoy the building.

We will. Move to small town Midwest if you want 2-story buildings everywhere.

[nativeomahan]

This isn’t an unusually large building given the location. There is a 95 unit condo building under construction next door to our condo, as I am constantly reminded by the fact that they are working an 11 hour day (so far) on a Saturday on it.

[Athomsfere]

I went by this again yesterday, still slow progress but progress down in the hole regardless. And that crane feels so imposing right now.

[daveoma]

I'm excited to see a photo update from Brad. :-)

[Cermak]

Drove by yesterday, it looks like this could be rising above street level soon. This building is going to have a huge impact on the neighborhood.

[Brad]

Drove by yesterday, it looks like this could be rising above street level soon.

Is the "basement" concrete wall all the way around the perimeter yet?

[Cermak]

Drove by yesterday, it looks like this could be rising above street level soon.

Is the "basement" concrete wall all the way around the perimeter yet?

I couldn't tell, if it isn't, it's probably getting close .

[skinzfan23]

It was on the wowt citycam last week, next time I see it, I will get a screenshot,( that is a good view from up there)

[stadsborgare]

picture update

[Flyer14]

They are starting to work above street level on this project.

[skinzfan23]

They are starting to work above street level on this project.

Glad to hear, that is always the toughest thing to see (or lack thereof) of all the underground work and utilities, always a little more exciting once projects are above ground level.

I take my wife by here all the time and she thinks I am crazy for always checking the progress on the hole in the ground....haha. Guess what, she is in for a lot more of that with the Mutual tower just starting.

[Cermak]

This should get a lot more exciting now that it's starting to get above street level. This should really have a huge impact on the Blackstone neighborhood, probably more so than any building built so far, I hope it's not to overwhelming for the neighborhood, time will tell.

[thenewguy]

while not an ugly buidling, it seems to follow a lot of the same trends in so many other buidlings that have been built/are being built. In this case specifically, I wouldn't necessarily change some of the design aspects, because it will fit with the area. But it'd be nice if there were some variations of design around town. Example: the dark sections that bump out, the 'crown' around the top, etc, seen below:



on 72nd...

13 jones


It's not just an Omaha thing, it's happening all over
Sacremento

Atlanta

Ontario



I get it, there are design trends throughout the ages, i just wish we had some more variety

[MadJack]

while not an ugly buidling, it seems to follow a lot of the same trends in so many other buidlings that have been built/are being built. In this case specifically, I wouldn't necessarily change some of the design aspects, because it will fit with the area. But it'd be nice if there were some variations of design around town. Example: the dark sections that bump out, the 'crown' around the top, etc, seen below:



on 72nd...

13 jones


It's not just an Omaha thing, it's happening all over
Sacremento

Atlanta

Ontario



I get it, there are design trends throughout the ages, i just wish we had some more variety

Architecture is like apparel fashion. Design trends come and go. That allows us to look back at older buildings and declare them as good examples of certain architectural periods. We get the variety that you like by preserving old buildings and building newer ones next to them. I like this 9-story Blackstone building a lot.

[ita]

I drove past this project last night and this is looking like a huge building. They have pillars going up, and driving down the length of the property, you get a sense of how big this thing is going to be. One of my most anticipated projects. Can't wait to see this reach the top floor. Lastly, the barrier had some covering on it. I caught a glimpse of a name, of what I assumed to be the project's, something like 37 West or West 37th. Maybe someone else can confirm.

[mtj]

It looks like it's going to be 37 West Farnam. They put the banner up maybe 2ish weeks ago. It has a website but doesn't provide a ton of information. Just the 2024 Fall opening date. https://www.37westfarnam.com/thirty-seven-west-farnam

[Omaha Cowboy]

It looks like it's going to be 37 West Farnam. They put the banner up maybe 2ish weeks ago. It has a website but doesn't provide a ton of information. Just the 2024 Fall opening date. https://www.37westfarnam.com/thirty-seven-west-farnam

Thanks for posting the link and welcome to the forum …

Ciao..LiO…Peace

[ita]

I think these are updated renders, distinguished by the 37 West signage (pulled from commercial posting):

[skinzfan23]

I still can't wait to see it. I have noticed that it is going more vertical, so hopefully by the end of the year it will be much taller (I am sure those top floors will go much faster)

[thenewguy]

looks better