Butternut Coffee Building catches on fire

[Skymissile162]

One of Downtown Omaha's famous landmarks, the 9 story Butternut Coffee Building, catched on fire this last Wednesday. The fire completely destroyed the insides of the building and collapsed the huge signature coffee can that stood proud for nearly a century. All that remains now is the outer red brick walls, and officials are keeping constant watch on that in fear it too will eventually collapse. So far, though, the 30 inch thick walls continue to stand.

Built in 1908, the 9 story building was undergoing a massive renovation to convert it's 210,000 square feet of space into condominiums. The renovation work was just weeks from completion when the fire struck. Depending on the exact start date, it is anticipated it will take some 3-4 years to create a new highrise apartment complex. I will have more updates on this development as soon as I get them.

As an aside, I was always used to seeing this building in the skyline during my trips downtown. I will definately miss it's presense in the skyline.

[Allan]

I heard about this. How awful! It was the last warehouse in the warehouse district left to be converted into lofts. I love old buildings like this. It really is a loss for DT Omaha. Architecture like this is irreplaceable. Do you have any pics of the building?

[Skymissile162]

Not yet, but I'll search through some of my local news sites to see what I can find. I too like old buildings from the late 1800s/early 1900s, and will definately miss this one.

J P

[bobliocatt]

There's a thread with photos of the building, before and after the fire, as well as pics of renovated spaces inside of the building on SSP. When I get some time I may post some pics here if its not too much trouble.

[Allan]

Link to the SSP thread:

http://www.skyscraperpage.com/forum/showth...?threadid=26469

I would've actually posted the pics in this thread, but I have a physics exam to go study for .

[Matthew]

I never like to see old buildings lost like this.

Here's a video.

http://www.theomahachannel.com/video/2751949/detail.html

[Skymissile162]

The link posted by Matthew was the only link I was able find on the local sites. Thanks for posting that link, BTW. I haven't heard much more news about this, except for the fact the outer walls could still (unfortunately) collapse at anytime. I'll keep you all informed.

J P

[Allan]

Today I heard that the developers want to try & work with the remaining structure, and that they are looking at the building with engineers to see if it can be done.

[Skymissile162]

I definately wish them all the luck. It would be nice if at least some of the fascade could be saved and rebuilt on. Thanks for that tidbit, BTW.

J P