The Arthur

Along the bustling Dodge corridor, the historic Pittman Building, once a prominent veterinary clinic run by Omaha’s first African American veterinarian, Dr. Arthur Pittman, sat vacant for over a decade as surrounding conditions deteriorated. What began as a vision for an office development evolved in response to midtown’s growing residential demand and density.

Throughout evolution of development the vision for the Pittman building remained an essential piece to the site. Built in 1948 in the Art Moderne style, the Pittman remains a rare architectural typology in Omaha. Rehabilitating a small building of this era, known for curved forms, glass block, and streamlined geometry, is uncommon due to cost, scale, and technical constraints. With the original style intact, renovation of the clinic took careful consideration to source materials that fit seamlessly with the original design, honoring Dr. Pittman’s legacy while safeguarding one of the city’s few remaining examples of this modernist style.

The Arthur’s renewal delivers social and economic value to the surrounding block. Thoughtfully blending historic preservation, modern amenities, and rigorous health, safety, and welfare upgrades, the project exemplifies how culturally rooted adaptive reuse can elevate both daily life and community identity.

The Arthur’s brand identity was developed to honor Dr. Pittman’s legacy not only in name but also in acknowledgement to his civic leadership. The sun icon references his New Horizons housing initiative of the 1960s, symbolizing a new chapter in urban living. Animals are, of course, welcome, each floor plan is named for a dog breed, complemented by pet‑friendly amenities including a dog wash and outdoor turf run.

Honorable Mention – 2026

IIDA Great Plains Chapter IDEA