One18 West: Bringing New Life to Reno’s History

Historic Downtown Reno Restoration Project Photoshoot, photography by Evan Petty

In 2024 and 2025, the historic One18 West underwent its most significant transformation in decades. The interior was completely reimagined while preserving the building’s historic character and presence within the neighborhood. These images are my finished photography of the extensive renovation.

Above: Exterior views at different times of the day

Standing at the corner of West and First Streets, just a short walk from the Truckee River, One18 West has been part of our community’s story for well over a century. Long before Reno became known for its bright lights, bustling downtown, and growing skyline, this corner was lined with trees, picket fences, and modest homes. In 1907, a new building rose above the neighborhood—a grand brick apartment house known as the Colonial Apartments. At the time, it was unlike anything Reno had seen before.

Built by prominent Reno developer Charles E. Clough and his partner George Crosby, the Colonial Apartments represented a bold vision for a rapidly growing city. Clough was one of the early builders who helped shape Reno’s future, contributing to everything from local utilities to some of the city’s most important early buildings. When the Colonial Apartments opened, it was considered one of Reno’s most modern residences. The building featured conveniences that were remarkable for the era, including an elevator, hardwood floors, marble details, and furnished apartments designed to accommodate both long-term residents and visitors. It was said to have been modeled after the fashionable apartment houses being built in Los Angeles at the time.

Above: Photo highlights of the stunning historic woodwork

The building arrived during a fascinating chapter in Reno’s history. As Nevada’s residency laws attracted people seeking divorces from across the country, a unique community of temporary residents emerged. The Colonial Apartments became one of the city’s premier addresses for visitors staying weeks or months at a time while establishing residency. Newly arrived travelers shared hallways with local business owners, young couples starting their lives together, retirees, and professionals building careers in a city that was quickly finding its place in the American West.

Above: Views from the newly-renovated rooms

Over the decades, the building evolved alongside our community. Historic photographs show horse-drawn wagons and early automobiles parked outside its entrance. Residents watched parades pass along First Street from their windows, witnessed Reno’s neon era emerge, and saw downtown reinvent itself time and again. In the 1950s, the building became especially popular with senior residents who appreciated its location and simplicity. Then, in 1972, sisters Anna and Ethel Ross purchased the property, renaming it Ross Manor. For many longtime Reno residents, that is the name they remember most fondly.

Above: Fantastic colors throughout the interiors

What makes One18 West special is not simply its age, but the generations of stories held within its walls. Thousands of people have called this building home over the last century. Some stayed for a few months, others for many years, but all became part of its continuing history. While much of downtown changed around it, the building remained a familiar landmark, quietly witnessing the growth, challenges, and successes of our community.

Above: Photos of the exterior walkway entrances completely restored

Today, following its remarkable restoration, One18 West begins a new chapter. The renovation preserves a piece of Reno’s architectural heritage while ensuring that the building remains part of downtown life for decades to come. More than a historic structure, One18 West is a bridge between generations—a place where the stories of early Reno, Ross Manor, and modern downtown all come together.

Above: The redesigned courtyard with fantastic masonry to match the brick building

Below are thumbnail images of the extensive photography shot over a few days to capture the interior, exterior, drone photography and video of the newly completed renovations.

Gallery Images:

Schedule a Photoshoot with Evan:

Email: evanp@aerial-imaging.com | Cell: 775-846-8598
Reno, Sparks, Carson City, Lake Tahoe, Northern Nevada

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