Besse Hotel

Architect: Buxton Kubik Dodd Design Collective
Engineers: Miller Engineering LLC, structural: and Buxton Kubik Dodd Design Collective, mechanical, electrical and plumbing
General contractor: Crossland Construction Co. Inc.
Estimated cost: $20 million
Estimated completion: June
Project description: A historic renovation of a 13-story landmark in downtown Pittsburg, Kansas, is an attempt to transform the long-vacant building into student-focused housing for Pittsburg State University. The project aims to preserve and restore historic features while introducing modern building systems, updated unit layouts and refreshed common spaces. Project officials say the design balances respect for the hotel’s late Gothic Revival character with contemporary finishes, accessibility improvements and life-safety upgrades to support long-term reuse.