Vertical Data Center Coming to Kansas City
SOM unveils design for 20-story downtown-integrated data center.
1Urban-Integrated Design
Designed by SOM, the 20-story data center will rise on a 0.23-acre site in downtown Kansas City, replacing the current Western Newspaper Union Building. Unlike traditional horizontal data centers, this project features a vertical arrangement. The design incorporates architectural elements from surrounding commercial buildings, aiming to blend seamlessly with the urban fabric while addressing growing computational needs in city centers.
2Closed-Loop System Innovation
The 934 Central Street project vertically stacks data floors, power infrastructure, and cooling systems within a single tower. A SOM spokesperson explained this approach creates a closed loop for water and energy management. The system will operate independently from the grid using natural gas cells. Upper-floor equipment will facilitate internal water circulation, significantly reducing resource consumption compared to conventional data centers.
3Addressing Sustainability Concerns
The design responds to growing concerns about data centers' water and energy usage. SOM claims the building includes measures to mitigate urban heat island effects. However, local residents express concerns about the project's speculative nature and potential environmental impacts. The demolition of the historic Western Newspaper Union Building has also sparked controversy within the community and preservation advocates.
4Future Conversion Capability
The tower's design allows for potential conversion to other uses if computing demand decreases. Its side core, regular structural grid, and generous floor-to-ceiling heights enable future adaptation as residential or office space. SOM emphasizes this flexibility enhances the project's long-term viability. This forward-thinking approach represents a significant shift in data center design philosophy, addressing concerns about technological obsolescence.
5Commercial and Community Integration
The ground floor will feature 4,700 square feet of retail space. SOM used relatively standard cladding systems for commercial elements to maintain urban context. The firm highlights proximity to urban systems that will use the data center's output as a key location factor. The project aims to positively contribute to surrounding communities, representing a new model for urban infrastructure integration.
6Aligning with Global Trends
The project responds to the worldwide surge in data center demand. SOM emphasizes urban locations provide proximity to served industries. Recent examples like Gensler's hyperscale data center in Utah and London's Truman Brewery development reflect industry growth trends. This vertical approach could set a new standard for data center construction in space-constrained urban environments.
7Local Opposition and Process
The Kansas City Planning Commission will review the project on August 5, 2026. Residents worry about exacerbated urban heat island effects. Preservationists oppose demolishing the Western Newspaper Union Building. The approval process will hinge on how these concerns are addressed. The outcome could influence similar future projects in other cities facing comparable urban development challenges.
8Revolutionizing Data Center Design
SOM's vertical data center concept could establish a new industry standard. Its urban location and multi-story design depart from conventional models. If successful, it may inspire similar initiatives in other metropolises. However, effective environmental impact management and community acceptance will be crucial for widespread adoption. This project represents a significant step toward sustainable urban digital infrastructure.