UMusic Hospitality & Lifestyle and UMH Development, LLC. have announced the launch of UMusic Hotel Kansas City, an adaptive reuse project for the Scarritt Building, an iconic landmark in the historic downtown of Kansas City, Missouri. Construction is scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026. The project reflects UMusic Hotels’ international development strategy, which began with the opening of its Madrid property.
A heritage building reimagined as a lifestyle destination
Built more than 117 years ago, the Scarritt Building is one of downtown Kansas City’s architectural landmarks. The project calls for a sympathetic redevelopment of the existing structure, aiming to preserve the architectural character that has distinguished the building for generations while converting it into an upscale hospitality destination.
Once complete, UMusic Hotel Kansas City will comprise around 169 guest rooms alongside a connected 309-unit branded residential tower. The development will also include an immersive space dedicated to music and entertainment, a professional recording studio and a UMusic Shop.
An expanded dining and wellness offering
The programme will feature several dining concepts, including a year-round rooftop restaurant, a lounge and a pool, as well as a spa and fitness centre. The site is located three blocks from the Power & Light District and around a ten-minute walk from the T-Mobile Center, at the heart of the city’s cultural, events and nightlife district.
A development backed by public and private partners
Lawrence Bain, CEO of UMH Development, LLC., said the project could not have come to fruition without the involvement of the City of Kansas City, the Economic Development Corporation and PortKC. He pointed to a strong economic foundation enabling the creation of an immersive entertainment hub in the downtown area.
The project is being led by UMH Development, LLC. in partnership with BR Companies, a development partner based in Kansas City and Los Angeles. This heritage conversion project is part of a broader trend seen across the sector, echoing the transformation of former bank headquarters and administrative buildings into hotels undertaken by other international operators.
A new milestone for the UMusic Hotels brand
UMusic Hotels was created to reinvent traditional hospitality through the lens of music and culture. Following the launch of UMusic Hotel Madrid, the group continues its diversification into other experiential formats linked to music and lifestyle. Kansas City, with its blend of historic heritage and cultural energy, fits squarely within the brand’s international growth trajectory.
At a Glance by The Hospitality Tribune
Project: UMusic Hotel Kansas City, adaptive reuse of the 117-year-old Scarritt Building
Construction start: Q4 2026
Scale: ~169 guest rooms plus a connected 309-unit branded residential tower
Amenities: recording studio, live music venue, UMusic Shop, rooftop restaurant, lounge, pool, spa & fitness center
Developers: UMH Development, LLC. and BR Companies, in partnership with UMusic Hospitality & Lifestyle
Brand context: follows the launch of UMusic Hotel Madrid, UMusic Hotels’ flagship property
