One of the largest independent jewelry stores in the United States picked two firms in its hometown of Omaha, Nebraska, to lead an extensive remodeling of its flagship location.
Borsheims hired the architecture firm HDR and general contractor Kiewit to upgrade a portion of its store in Omaha, according to a news release from the jeweler. Borsheims is owned by Berkshire Hathaway, the Omaha-based conglomerate founded by Warren Buffett, who recently retired as CEO.
The project entails renovating Borsheims’ showroom “into an open-space concept environment that blends contemporary design, artistic influence and an elevated customer journey,” according to the release. Seating areas will be added for private consultations and a space reserved for “high-end jewelry collections” will be updated.
Plans also include cladding Borsheims' exterior façade in gold-colored paneling and building a new entrance vestibule “designed as an architectural statement,” the company said, replacing its existing glass structure that serves as the store's main entrance.
Borsheims is the largest tenant in Regency Court, a shopping center owned by RED Development and Big Shopping Centers USA, according to CoStar data.
The project will renovate 20,000 square feet, or 43%, of the 46,570-square-foot store. Construction will start shortly after Berkshire Hathaway holds its annual meeting in May in Omaha. The store will remain open during renovations.
"For more than 155 years, Borsheims has evolved alongside our customers," said Karen Goracke, president and CEO of Borsheims, in the release. "This renovation elevates the shopping experience while ensuring our flagship remains a locally loved, nationally relevant luxury destination."
In addition to jewelry, Borsheims sells watches, crystal, china, stemware, flatware, gifts and collectibles. Borsheims is known for special services like private appointments with its sales staff and complimentary gift wrap. Borsheims sells products at its Omaha store and online.
HDR is an architecture and engineering firm that does work worldwide but has an extensive portfolio in its hometown of Omaha. Recent architectural design work includes 1501 Mike Fahey St., an office building with retail and restaurant space in Omaha’s Builders District that uses mass timber for structural support.