Magnolia Hotel: From Aquila Court to Omaha Landmark

The historic building has transformed over the decades, from a multi-use destination to a beloved boutique hotel.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 9:55pm

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Originally built in 1924 as Aquila Court, the building that now houses the Magnolia Hotel in Omaha, Nebraska has a rich and storied history. Designed by the Chicago architectural firm Holabird & Roche, the U-shaped structure featured a central courtyard, luxury materials, and innovative amenities. Over the years, it has undergone various renovations and changes in ownership, but has remained an iconic part of Omaha's landscape.

Why it matters

The Magnolia Hotel's evolution from Aquila Court to its current form represents the changing face of Omaha's architecture and real estate landscape. As one of the few remaining examples of the Aquila Court buildings designed by the Cook brothers, it serves as a testament to the city's history and the enduring appeal of thoughtful, high-quality design.

The details

Aquila Court was envisioned as a multi-use destination, combining offices, apartments, and retail space around a central courtyard inspired by European design. The building's exterior was faced with Bedford limestone, while the interior courtyard walls were constructed of red brick. The interior featured luxurious materials like mahogany, terrazzo marble, and imported travertine, as well as modern amenities like electric elevators and steam heating. Over the years, the building has undergone various renovations, including the removal of the original courtyard pools and canals, and the conversion to a hotel in the 1990s.

  • Aquila Court opened in 1924.
  • The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974.
  • The Westin Aquila hotel opened in 1996 after a major renovation.
  • The hotel became part of the Sheraton chain in 1999 and the Magnolia brand in 2006.
  • The Magnolia Hotel was named runner-up for Best Hotel in the 2025 Omaha Metropolitan Area Tourism Awards.

The players

Aquila Cook

The original owner of the land on which Aquila Court was built.

Chester and Raymond Cook

The brothers who built Aquila Court in 1924.

Holabird & Roche

The Chicago architectural firm that designed Aquila Court.

Fred Winkelmann

The president of Union Casualty Company and a real estate developer who renovated the building in the 1970s.

David Slattery

The real estate developer who acquired the building in 1992 and oversaw its conversion to the Westin Aquila hotel.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in Omaha, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, Grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The Magnolia Hotel's transformation from the innovative Aquila Court to a beloved boutique hotel highlights Omaha's architectural and cultural evolution. As one of the few remaining examples of the Aquila Court buildings, the Magnolia Hotel serves as a testament to the city's commitment to preserving its historic landmarks and adapting them to meet the needs of modern times.