Square at 48

Located in Lincoln, NE

When a developer decided to reinvigorate a north Lincoln, Nebraska, neighborhood that housed a few beloved but dilapidated buildings, Shive-Hattery helped clean up the area. The next step: deciding what would bring new life to this streetscape. Located near University of Nebraska East Campus and Nebraska Wesleyan University, the developer wanted to attract students as well as other community members.

After conducting a series of studies, Shive-Hattery determined that the best use of the space would be to create more residential living, including multifamily options.

To provide the community with multifamily living, Shive-Hattery created Square at 48: a five-story facility that combines residential and commercial space. The main floor (commercial space) houses the Square at 48 leasing office, gym, and vertical circulation for the tenants above, as well as space on either side for restaurants, salons, and shops.

The structure is designed to fit nicely on the corner of 48th and Holdrege Streets and complement nearby buildings, incorporating many of the same materials, including tan and dark brick with orange accents on each end to draw attention.

Residential living options include 99 apartments ranging from 600-square-foot studios to 1,100-square-foot, two-bedroom units. Instead of following the traditional design approach of putting bedrooms in the corner of the building, the corner units bring kitchen, dining, and living space out to the corner. Nearly half the units have their own balconies.

Modern, clean finishes, such as white solid-surface countertops, gray-brown cabinets, and luxury vinyl plank floors, were selected. The hallways alternate between orange and blue flooring and accent colors to create a hip vibe.

The top floor on the east side of the building features a common space with a large TV, foosball table, and full kitchenette. It connects to a deck and an outdoor fireplace, giving tenants a place in the building to spend time outside of their living spaces.

The streetscape at 48th and Holdrege Streets is now an attraction, bringing new living and retail options to northern Lincoln. Square at 48 is attracting tenants of all ages: from students and young professionals to retirees. All available residential units are leased, with plans to add more apartment space to the building in the near future.