If you like nostalgia (and shoes), you’re going to love the River West Lofts.
The nursery rhyme about the old woman who lived in a shoe has always fascinated me. Being a shoe lover, what could possibly be better than living in a shoe?
Although the River West Lofts are far from being a shoe, it was once the J.P. Smith Shoe Company factory. Built in 1912, the building was one of Chicago’s first, earning a spot in the National Register of Historic Places.
Located at 925 West Huron Street, the steel frame shoe factory is now a 6-story, 160-unit, loft-style residential building in the River West neighborhood. And…it’s absolutely amazing!
Check it Out
The vintage red- bricked River West Lofts takes over the corners of Huron and Sangamon…in a good way.
Oversized windows add a distinctive look on the outside and give you awesome views from on the inside.
You definitely get the best of both worlds with this mid-rise. The building is only 6-stories so there’s a cozy feel to it. But, since it’s the tallest building around, there’s nothing to stand in your way of the gorgeous city skyline.
Take a Peek Inside
Some of my favorite things about the inside are the exposed bricks and the 12-14 foot timber ceilings. The oak and concrete beams and spiral ductwork are pretty incredible too.
A number of the units have wood burning fireplaces and some even have private outdoor space. All are Berber carpeted and have updated kitchens with stainless appliances and granite counter tops.
You’ll love how spacious the lofts are too. There are 28 different layouts to choose from – studio, convertible, and 1 and 2 bedrooms.
A Step Above
Up on the rooftop sundeck, you’ll get postcard perfect panoramic views of Chicago plus two gas grills, chaise lounging and bistro tables and chairs. In the summer you can beat the heat with an open air shower.
Enjoy the deck with your new River West Loft friends or throw a party of your own.
Talk About Perks
If you’re into working out (or want to be), you’ll have a gym stocked with state-of-the-art Life Fitness equipment. Or, you can kick back with a cold one in the penthouse-level party room, complete with a wet bar and fireplace.
You won’t ever have to worry about where to house your guests either because there’s a hospitality suite to accommodate them.
A business and conference center, resident library and on-site laundry and dry cleaning are among the other perks. The entire building is set up with high-speed internet. Plus, 24-hour maintenance staff is standing by for emergencies and a doorman is there to welcome you from 6 am to 6 pm.
River West Lofts allows one cat per residence and the building is non-smoking.
The Neighborhood
The residential neighborhood is snuggled between River North and Wicker Park so it’s quiet and inviting. But don’t let that fool you because there’s plenty to do.
You can grab groceries at Jewel Osco a little less than a mile down the road. CVS is close by too and there’s a brand new Target about a mile northeast.
What’s For Dinner?
You’ll have a good mix to choose from when it comes to eating like:
D’Agostino’s Pizza River West
It would be a sin to live in Chicago without a great pizza place nearby. Lucky for you, D’Agostino’s Pizza River West is just a couple of minutes away from River West Lofts on the corner of Chicago and Halsted.
Notorious for their thin crust pizza, D’Agostino’s has been in business since 1968. I think they’ve got it down pat. Duck in to enjoy some fine Italian dining, pizzeria style, or call in for delivery.
Jerk Jamaican Chicken
This restaurant is a downright blast. With its roots stemming from a food truck, Jerk Jamaican Chicken serves up authentic, delicious Jamaican BBQ atmosphere in a laid-back, hip atmosphere.
The rum cocktails and craft beer top it all off. And if you can, catch the game there too. It’s all happening right down the street at 811 W. Chicago Avenue.
Wetting Your Whistle
The nightlife is vibrant around River West Lofts and the pubs are full of character. Here’s one you simply must check out:
The Matchbox
Small in stature, huge in taste, The Matchbox is often referred to as “Chicago’s most intimate bar.” Located inside the Silver Palm, “The Box” is only 460 square feet but it’s certainly withstood the test of time, 75 years to be exact.
Located at Ogden, Milwaukee and Chicago, the tavern is actually a box car loaded with personality, nostalgia…and fun drinks. Order up a Gimlet or one of their other quirky cocktails.
The Fourth of July is not to be missed at The Matchbox. If you move in River West Lofts now, you’ll be unpacked and ready to celebrate with your new neighbors.
Getting Around
You’ll have convenient access to public transportation at River West Lofts with the Blue Line just a few blocks away. I-90/94 is easily accessible for north and westbound commuters.
If you’re a fan of biking, there are lanes along Milwaukee Avenue and Kinzie Street that will get you straight to Bucktown, the Loop, Wicker Park and River North.
It’s easy to rent a zipcar too and there’s taxi service available for the area.
If the Shoe Fits
Are you ready to try this lovely repurposed shoe factory on for size?
If you would like to find out more about the legendary River West Lofts, contact me at mia@hotspotrentals,com or check us out at hotspotrentals.com to begin your search for your next Chicago apartment.
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