Iconic Western Auto Sign In Downtown Kansas City Editorial Image

The twelve-story building was designed by Arthur C. Tufts & Co. and built by the Swenson Construction Company, for the Coca-Cola Company in 1914. The plat of land, originally purchased in 1913, was triangular, which gave the 12-story building its distinctive shape. The building was built in the commercial style, a more utilitarian style than was typical of contemporary architecture. It later was the headquarters of the Western Auto Supply Company, whose multi-story lighted sign still tops the building. The building and its sign are visible from much of the Crossroads and the surrounding neighborhoods, as well as to drivers on Interstate 35. This visibility, together with the structure`s longevity, has made the Western Auto Building a city landmark.