As large metropolitan areas go, few can hold a candle to Chicago, Sandburg’s “City of Big Shoulders.” Unless, of course, the city is Cleveland.
“I was born and raised a Clevelander, but I lived in Chicago for six years,” says Kara Skorepa, who works in pharmaceutical marketing. “So, when I moved back home and heard about all the great things happening downtown, it was kind of a no-brainer to move down here.
“Chicago is a vibrant, fantastic city,” Skorepa adds. “I loved the nighttime, and I enjoyed being downtown. But Cleveland is just a special place. The people are fantastic. And everyone who lives downtown is excited to be here.”
Skorepa loves downtown for its convenience factor, which is actually better than larger downtown areas like Chicago.
“Moving back from Chicago, I found I am able to walk just about everywhere, whether it’s to the gym or a favorite restaurant to meet up with some friends,” she says. “And if it isn’t a quick walk, it’s a very short Uber ride.”
Skorepa loves the entire downtown experience, especially when visiting renovated older buildings where care has been taken to retain their character while incorporating modern technology and amenities.
“I like going to places like Heinen’s, or the Marble Room,” she says, “Talk about beautiful architecture!”
Skorepa has some advice for those thinking about moving downtown.
“Come down. Explore your options,” she says. “There are so many great buildings. And there are new buildings going up everywhere. It’s an exciting time to be down here. And there are wonderful people doing great things down here.
“I have been very happy with my decision to live downtown.”
Setting A New Standard
When it comes to modern amenities and luxury urban living, few buildings downtown compare to the Standard. Offering pet-friendly amenities like an indoor dog park and dog washing station, the Standard blends the best of the state-of-the-art new with the character of the old.
Inside, there’s a collaboration area with a spectacular historic skylight. There is also a high-tech demonstration kitchen where you can host your next big event.
If you like to work out, there’s a fitness center with a yoga space that offers plenty of room to move. And if you’re worried about parking, there’s a 24-hour valet service.
This professionally managed community also offers other modern services and conveniences like online rent payment, package receiving and more. But it’s all done in keeping with the original character of the building,
“They did an absolutely beautiful job of restoring this building,” says one resident. “I especially enjoy all the common areas. The management is great, too. From the valets to the office staff, they really know how to make you feel at home.”