Historic Register Tour - Knickerbocker Apartments

HISTORIC NAME	Kempis Apartments
COMMON NAME	Same
DATE BUILT	1906
ARCHITECT/BUILDER	Alfred Jones, Architect and Christ Anderson, Contractor
PROPERTY STYLE	Renaissance Revival
ON THE SPOKANE REGISTER	Yes, 8/4/2003
NATIONAL REGISTER	No
IN A DISTRICT	No
DISTRICT	No
NEIGHBORHOOD	Cliff-Cannon

STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE

Built in 1906 and operating continually for more than 95 years, the Kempis Apartments is one of the first luxury apartments erected in Spokane, Washington. The Kempis was built to accommodate residents of more affluent means who sought permanent housing located away form the hustle and bustle of the city's center. The property was built for Maud L. Kemp, wife of Charles John Kemp, part owner of the Kemp & Hebert Department Store. The Kempis was designed and built by architect Alfred Jones and building contractor Christ Anderson. The apartment's garage and auto court was designed in 1920 by G.A. Pehrson. The Kempis was owned by various property investors from 1973 to 1995, remaining continuously occupied during that time. In 1995, Michael and Sarah Michalko purchased the property and remodeled the building, garage and auto court for use as luxury apartments that were rented on a daily, weekly and monthly basis. An upscale eatery was also added. Today, the Kempis is reverted back to luxury apartments and is being operated under Kempis LLC.