2911 Woolworth was once a multifamily house in the Park Avenue neighborhood, scheduled for demolition, with no plans for redevelopment.

The 1800 sq ft house had great potential with its historic charm and convenient location, just minutes from downtown and Hanscom Park. But it would also have its challenges.

The home was built in 1885 and vacant for 10 years before the Land Bank acquired it.

As a former duplex, it had a diagonal wall that ran through the first floor which separated the house into two dwelling units.

The house needed new windows, plumbing, electrical wiring, heating, and cooling.

The kitchen was outdated and needed new cabinets, countertops, and appliances.

Despite all of the challenges, there was still so much opportunity for a spacious home with multiple bedrooms and tons of natural lighting!

In 2018, the Omaha Municipal Land Bank sold 2911 Woolworth Ave to Kurt and Brenda Robinson of KBR Construction.

Kurt had all of the home renovation knowledge and skills.

Brenda was the designer who was convinced that they could make anything happen together.

The goal was to transform the house into an affordable single-family rental home that honored its historic charm.

"I like to see homes that represent various decades all in one neighborhood. The goal is to keep as many of these old houses in the historic neighborhoods as possible to show how it all began." - Brenda Robinson

The original staircase railing remained in place throughout the entire redevelopment process. It just needed a fresh coat of paint!

Kurt and Brenda saved enough of the original trim to accent 24 windows, 11 doors, and the cased openings!

There was welcomed assistance from the Robinson’s children: Brian and his wife Sara, Mariah and her husband Brett, who all live in town, as well as Christine, Nick, and Katie and her husband Josh when they came to visit!

Even the grandkids came out to help! "We're hoping to pass the desire and skills to fix up old houses to the next generations!" - Brenda Robinson

By 2019, Kurt and Brenda had completely rebuilt the front porch, installed new windows, flooring, plumbing, and so much more! It was time to put the finishing touches on.

After renovations, 2911 Woolworth Ave has maintained its historic charm with a modern twist! Red vinyl siding makes the original corbels stand out, and the front porch has been restored to a great place to enjoy the neighborhood.

The side porch roof has been repaired for a more welcoming entrance. Along the east side of the house, there are two productive cherry trees!

Custom cabinets were installed by CE Smith Custom Cabinets & Countertops, where Kurt and Brenda's son, Brian, works!

Andy and Gary of Gatchell Electric made sure the electrical system was up and running! New electrical, plumbing, insulation, heating, and cooling systems make the home much more energy-efficient.

Two of the three bedrooms have plush carpet and closets with shelves. Gus and Dennis of Haggerty Mechanical took care of the heat and air conditioning, so it stays cozy year-round!

The master bedroom has beautiful Shaw LVT flooring that is period-appropriate and practical.

The Land Bank loved seeing family members and neighbors coming together on this transformation, to incorporate the house’s historic character into new beginnings!

"The OMLB team was encouraging, and helpful, all throughout the process of buying and restoring the property. A Godsend when we were feeling like we'd never finish!" - Brenda Robinson