Downtown Living

DOWNTOWN SHREVEPORT Living in BY ADAM BAILEY DOWNTOWN

With the explosion of residential development—along with all the restaurant, retail, and entertainment options—downtown Shreveport is definitely the up-and-coming place to live in Shreveport-Bossier. It is said that the only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance. What’s holding you back?

Suburban life is not for the faint-of-heart. The house needs to be maintained. The yard has to be mowed, mulched, weeded, pruned and planted. Sure, you can pay ed, pruned and planted. Sure, you can pay someone to do this, but that costs money and time. And while it’s true that it can be satisfying to tame your tiny slice of the be satisfying to tame your tiny slice of the planet, it can also get old. Real old.

Maybe you never liked it in the first place. Maybe you’d rath Maybe you never liked it in the first place. Maybe you’d rather admire the landscape of local parks, where the grass and swaths of seasonal flowers are magically manicured by invisible garden elves. What if you lived downtown?

This other way of life—living downtown in the center of This other way of life—living downtown in the center of the city—doesn’t mean you’re to be pitied because your the city—doesn’t mean you’re to be pitied because your yard is a concrete balcony. In fact, downtown residents yard is a concrete balcony. In fact, downtown residents have a message for those living in the suburbs. Downtown have a message for those living in the suburbs. Downtowners aren’t missing a thing, but you are missing something ers aren’t missing a thing, but you are missing something by not living downtown! ings, many residents descend upon the Shreveport Farmers’ city’s center for technology, banking, law, government, gaming, and the arts. New restaurants and businesses are opment Authority. “Downtown Shreveport is the place of festivals, art and culture. The Strand Theatre, the Emmett

Downtown Shreveport

A place where busy professionals grab a hot cup of java togo at Rhino Coffee as they hustle to work during the week, and nursing students hurry off to class. On Saturday mornings, many residents descend upon the Shreveport Farmers’ Market, with its wide array of luscious fruit and vegetables, tasty treats and fabulous eateries. Home to 14,000 workers, downtown Shreveport is the city’s center for technology, banking, law, government, gaming, and the arts. New restaurants and businesses are constantly popping up, while old buildings are being revitalized and renovated. “In the middle of the action is where you want to be,” says Liz Swain, Executive Director of the Downtown Development Authority. “Downtown Shreveport is the place of festivals, art and culture. The Strand Theatre, the Emmett Hook Center, Robinson Film Center, Artspace, Central Art Station, the Bailey Gallery—all these places are bustling with activity. There are so many things to do!”

BUT WHAT’S IT LIKE ‘LIVING’ DOWNTOWN? WHAT IS THE ATTRACTION?

Work, Play and Live

Sit outside on a summer evening and you’ll know why many people call downtown Shreveport home. A breeze blows through the streets and cools the hot air. Distant wind chimes and the laughter of children at Caddo Common Park fill the air like music. Live music is playing (somewhere). Well-planned apartment complexes and condos encourage walking and biking. “Downtown has a little something for everyone,” says Wendy Benscoter, Executive Director of Shreveport Common. “It’s a great place for anyone to live, work and play.” Downtown Shreveport is small enough that you know your neighbors and feels like a hometown, yet offers many of the luxuries of a big city. It’s the best, admits Benscoter, of both worlds. “Think about the ASEANA Gardens with biannual Asian festivals and Logan Mansion with porch concerts and prohibition events. There are walking, bike and self-guided tours to see the beautiful historic spaces across downtown—such as the Calanthean Temple, Holy Cross Church, the 800 block of Texas Avenue and the BNAI Zion Temple. Most importantly,” Benscoter continues, “you have the welcoming and walkable streets, a dynamic art community, and authentic culture. People love walking to the lively Saturday morning farmers market and the numerous art festivals and street parties. All of this makes downtown a special place.” Jeri Little agrees. As the owner of Little Realty and a downtown resident, the cultural aspect of living downtown is one that she appreciates the most. “Having the Strand, Artspace, Robinson Film Center, The Lot, and Caddo Common Park— all within walking distance—is remarkable. I truly live, work and play downtown!” James Michael LeBlanc, a resident of the Southern Belle Apartments, has always been an advocate for downtown revitalization and growth, and absolutely loves living in downtown Shreveport. “My business is downtown and I wanted to move here to support the delicate balance of residential and business. With more residents considering downtown as a place to live, work, and play—the business element thrives in addition to allowing for more possibilities and opportunities for new businesses and residential to come in.” Having moved to downtown from North Bossier, LeBlanc considers himself a statistical rarity, but downtown in and of itself is, he believes, a rarity. “It’s special, and there will never be another just like it. The history, the architecture, the vibrancy of the art and creative culture, and shared passions of the same from neighbors and fellow business owners make downtown an ideal place to call home.” LeBlanc believes downtown needs people to invest in its pos-

sibilities and appreciate its unique vibe. “It is most definitely a special place. Downtown districts are the heartbeat of any city.” This ‘live, work and play’ attitude that both Little and LeBlanc refer to is evident in the swell of residential activity currently happening in downtown. There is a surge of people—typically singles, empty nesters or young couples, who are determined to make a go of downtown living and its walkability to their workplace, restaurants, bars and enthrough the streets and cools the hot air. Distant wind tertainment venues. And while most Shreveport residents only think of downtown as a place of commerce (or the occasional night out on the town)—believe-it-or-not there are numerous options to choose from, ranging from multi-unit complexes to single, one-off apartments. “Downtown has a little something for everyone,” says Wendy “Downtown is transforming,” says Swain. “It is a transBenscoter, Executive Director of Shreveport Common. “It’s formed downtown that is still evolving, a place that strives to meld the best of the historical with the modern—a place where people not only work and play but live. There are and feels like a hometown, yet offers many of the luxuries of a nearly 800 units one can choose from. And most are very unique, one-of-a kind residences you will only find in here in downtown Shreveport.” tivals and Logan Mansion with porch concerts and prohibi of Texas Avenue and the BNAI Zion Temple. Most impor tantly,” Benscoter continues, “you have the welcoming and culture. People love walking to the lively Saturday morning town resident, the cultural aspect of living downtown is one vitalization and growth, and absolutely loves living in down town Shreveport. “My business is downtown and I wanted to of itself is, he believes, a rarity. “It’s special, and there will sibilities and appreciate its unique vibe. “It is most definitely a special place. Downtown districts are the heartbeat of any city.” This ‘live, work and play’ attitude that both Little and LeBlanc refer to is evident in the swell of residential activity currently happening in downtown. There is a surge of people—typically singles, empty nesters or young couples, who are determined to make a go of downtown living and its walkability to their workplace, restaurants, bars and entertainment venues. And while most Shreveport residents only think of downtown as a place of commerce (or the occasional night out on the town)—believe-it-or-not there are numerous options to choose from, ranging from multi-unit complexes to single, one-off apartments. “Downtown is transforming,” says Swain. “It is a transformed downtown that is still evolving, a place that strives to meld the best of the historical with the modern—a place where people not only work and play but live. There are nearly 800 units one can choose from. And most are very unique, one-of-a kind residences you will only find in here in downtown Shreveport.”

Here are a few examples of places to live. Here are a few examples of places to live.

Southern Belle Apartments — 627 Crockett St.

Built in the 1940s for the Southern Bell Telephone Company, this Mid-Century Modern building sits just across pany, this Mid-Century Modern building sits just across Crockett Street from the beautiful Strand Theatre. It is Crockett Street from the beautiful Strand Theatre. It is centrally located from just about everything in the Shreveport Common Arts & Culture District—less than two blocks port Common Arts & Culture District—less than two blocks from Caddo Common Park, two blocks from the Asian Garden Park, two blocks from the Emmett Hook Performance den Park, two blocks from the Emmett Hook Performance Center, two blocks from the historic Municipal Auditorium, Center, two blocks from the historic Municipal Auditorium, and two blocks from Artspace, the Robinson Film Center and multiple restaurants and coffee shops. Each apartment has an open floor plan that makes it feel like home, with a has an open floor plan that makes it feel like home, with a communal roof top patio for residents and their guests that showcase spectacular views of downtown Shreveport. Studio? One bedroom? Two bedrooms? A city view or a scenic skyline? This freshly renovated historic building is in the heart of downtown Shreveport has housed many uses over ing. In 2018, it was transformed into 72 high-rise, loft-style Shreveport from all four sides of the building through large, energy efficient, sound dampening windows. The building is a 5-minute walk down the street to the convention center and 10-minute walk to the riverfront casinos. pert Jade Thornton, who not only lives downtown, but ally meeting her friend’s downtown. “I can’t picture myself living anywhere else as long as I’m in Shreveport honestly,” Thornton confesses. “I love high-rise

The Standard Downtown Lofts — 509 Market St.

Studio? One bedroom? Two bedrooms? A city view or a scenic skyline? This freshly renovated historic building is in the heart of downtown Shreveport has housed many uses over the years—including a bank, radio station and office building. In 2018, it was transformed into 72 high-rise, loft-style apartments that are all uniquely designed with a spacious, open-concept floor plan. Residents enjoy unique views of Shreveport from all four sides of the building through large, energy efficient, sound dampening windows. The building is a 5-minute walk down the street to the convention center and 10-minute walk to the riverfront casinos. “I love living in downtown Shreveport,” says branding expert Jade Thornton, who not only lives downtown, but works there as well. Even when she not working, she is usually meeting her friend’s downtown. “I can’t picture myself living anywhere else as long as I’m in Shreveport honestly,” Thornton confesses. “I love high-rise

Photo courtesy of Southern Belle Apartments

living. I have a beautiful view of Festival Plaza and the riverfront from my home. I love that I can walk to events and restaurants. Most of my neighbors are lovely people and I enjoy the monthly social events that are hosted in the building.”

What is Thornton’s favorite part of living downtown? Watching the area evolve in real time, she admits. “I love seeing all of the creative ways that people are revitalizing this area. I am excited to see what’s next for downtown Shreveport and I’m glad to be part of this community.”

David Hylan, another resident of The Standard, couldn’t agree more. “Living downtown is what I would imagine living in NYC is like. I like the living experience. There are so many event that making living here so attractive. People downtown are like family to me. When you go for a walk, everyone greets you with a smile. It makes you feel that downtown is your home.”

this area. I am excited to see what’s next for downtown contemporary features that enhance today’s lifestyles. Re The Lofts @ 624 is a mixed-used building that was once store with its genteel tea room and glass cases of expensive leather gloves. Today, the building offers and assortment of living options—from studios, one-bedroom, split-level, “Everything I need is here,” says Aubrey Underhill, a commercial pilot who loves calling downtown his home. His fourth-floor loft, located directly above Rhino Coffee, has spectacular views of Texas Avenue and all the activities that go on there. “The Robinson Film Center is right outside my window,” he says. “Everything I could want is within walking distance.” business. The complex offers 54, one- or two-bedroom mar complex is within walking distance of the Shreveport river front and Festival Plaza. Each apartment features light from soaring windows, spaciousness of tall ceilings, and textures conveniently at the entrance to downtown in Shreveport Common. Amenities include a convenience store and café apartments is for the convenience of proximity to my work. my entire life. I have settled comfortably in the happenings Goods business, one- and two-bedroom apartments are for artists, with a four-story open-air atrium space available

Ogilvie Hardware Lofts — 217 Jones St.

The former Ogilvie Hardware Company warehouse opened in 2012 and offers affordable studio, one- and two-bedroom loft-style apartments. These unique residences showcase original architectural details while incorporating all the contemporary features that enhance today’s lifestyles. Resort-style amenities, such as the shimmering saltwater pool and fully equipped fitness center, offer plenty of opportunities for enjoyment.

Lofts @ 624 Texas — 624 Texas St.

The Lofts @ 624 is a mixed-used building that was once the location of the downtown Sears department store. It is, however, no longer your grandmother’s department store with its genteel tea room and glass cases of expensive leather gloves. Today, the building offers and assortment of living options—from studios, one-bedroom, split-level, two-bedroom and penthouse units—all located right above commercial spaces including Rhino Coffee, Humm Yoga and Appli-Ks Embroidery & Gifts. The Lofts offer a host of amenities including free internet, free water, modern appliances and is pet-friendly. “Everything I need is here,” says Aubrey Underhill, a commercial pilot who loves calling downtown his home. His fourth-floor loft, located directly above Rhino Coffee, has spectacular views of Texas Avenue and all the activities that go on there. “The Robinson Film Center is right outside my window,” he says. “Everything I could want is within walking distance.”

United Jewelers Apartments — 301 Crockett St.

Constructed in 1926, the building that houses United Jewelers Apartments was once home to a jewelry wholesale business. The complex offers 54, one- or two-bedroom market-rate units. Residents enjoy living in the heart of the city and relish the ambiance of living in an historic property. The complex is within walking distance of the Shreveport riverfront and Festival Plaza. Each apartment features light from soaring windows, spaciousness of tall ceilings, and textures of exposed brick. Amenities for renters include a swimming pool, fireplaces in select floor plans, and gated parking.

Fairmont Towers — 708 Cotton St.

Fairmont Towers provides residents with affordable housing in downtown’s largest apartment building, located conveniently at the entrance to downtown in Shreveport Common. Amenities include a convenience store and café on site, paid utilities, fitness room, sun room, pool, and a laundry room on each floor. According to Thomas Durham, a Fairmont Tower resident since 1972, “The main reason that I like the Fairmont apartments is for the convenience of proximity to my work. Downtown Shreveport has been my choice home for almost my entire life. I have settled comfortably in the happenings of this high-rise community.”

Lee Hardware Apartments — 719 Edwards St.

Lee Hardware Apartments are, quite simply, unique. Opened in 1999 in a building that once housed the Lee Dry Goods business, one- and two-bedroom apartments are available for rent. The complex features live-and-work lofts for artists, with a four-story open-air atrium space available

FOOD FUN FESTIVALS

www.thelotdowntownshreveport.com

Look for our new food truck... Ghost Ramen!

The Lot Downtown Shreveport is a spacious outdoor event center, located in the heart of downtown The Lot Downtown Shreveport is a spacious outdoor event center, located in the heart of downtown Shreveport, LA. Owners Deshea and Edgar Guzman have turned the old Sportran Bus Station into a familyShreveport, LA. Owners Deshea and Edgar Guzman have turned the old Sportran Bus Station into a familyfriendly hangout where you can enjoy local food trucks, live music, sports, art vendors and special friendly hangout where you can enjoy local food trucks, live music, sports, art vendors and special events. Bands, artists, and foodies from all over come to showcase their talents each weekend and events. Bands, artists, and foodies from all over come to showcase their talents each weekend and create a lively atmosphere everyone can enjoy.

The Standard Downtown Lofts

to all residents for exhibitions and rehearsals. With eleven-foot ceilings over original wood floors, residents enjoy the warmth of natural lighting streaming through lofty win-the warmth of natural lighting streaming through lofty win dows in each unit. project—the Board of Trade Lofts in Duluth, Minnesota—is which, in addition to being one of the city’s first metal and steel skyscrapers, is a freestanding component on the National Register of Historic Places. The apartments will boast a range of amenities like exercise facilities, onsite storage, pet groomer space, Wi-Fi, in-unit washer and dryer, ceilings over 9 feet tall, and possibly an indoor children’s play area. ket-rate and 16 will be income limited). The building contains Common is now attracting start-ups, architects, retailers toric architecture, venues, fun programming, public art and the Dalmatian. Others like that the area is less dense and of lieves “it’s an exciting time to be living right here in Shreve port Common—this undiscovered jewel in our city. It’s safe, to experience the events, it’s going to steamroll more resi says he grew up on Sprague Street, and misses the foot traf fic by families and artists in downtown. “I like that it’s com spiring change in the cultural district. “I’m excited about over the next two years,” she admits. “I can’t wait to see renovated in downtown Shreveport. I believe it is one of “But even more,” she exclaims, “it’s all so uniquely eclectic.

Ridgeway Square — 719 Marshall Street

Ridgeway Square offers brand new, one- and two-bedroom condo apartments in a beautifully renovated space. Units range in size, and come with hardwood floors, a stand-alone tub and state-of-the-art appliances carefully designed to exude a classic, sophisticated look. The exposed brick, natural light and fine attention to detail contribute to its elegant aesthetic. That, along with its enviable location in downtown, make it a must-see property.

Being steps away from work is an obvious plus, notes owner John Cush, but having all of downtown’s amenities at your door step isn’t too shabby either.

COMING SOON!

Petroleum Tower — 711 Milam St.

While the revitalization plans for this skyscraper are still being finalized, this much of the project is true. The new owners of the Petroleum Tower, The Dubin/Guru Group, have a long history of residential conversions. Their latest project—the Board of Trade Lofts in Duluth, Minnesota—is a 7-story historic building that was rehabbed into trendy loft apartments. They envision a similar rehabilitation project for the 16-story, 145,000 square-foot Petroleum Tower, which, in addition to being one of the city’s first metal and steel skyscrapers, is a freestanding component on the National Register of Historic Places. The apartments will boast a range of amenities like exercise facilities, onsite storage, pet groomer space, Wi-Fi, in-unit washer and dryer, ceilings over 9 feet tall, and possibly an indoor children’s play area.

The Uneeda Biscuit Lofts — 711 Milam St.

The Uneeda Biscuit Building, which has long sat vacant, is scheduled to be converted into a mixed-use property for apartments, art exhibits and commercial businesses. The current plans include +/- 32 apartment units (16 will be market-rate and 16 will be income limited). The building contains a basement and mezzanine, which will allow for other possible uses such as working and gallery space for artists, the property leasing office, a community room and retail space.

Living Options in Shreveport Common

Shreveport Common—a historic, nine-block area located at the western edge of downtown Shreveport—has numerous living options aside from the Fairmont and future-Uneeda Biscuit project. Spurts of redevelopment that began in early 2011 has turned into a steady flow, as demand for creative spaces and walk-to downtown property rises. Shreveport Common is now attracting start-ups, architects, retailers and a full array of creative artists. The recent building boom has added dozens of proposed condos and apartments, many well priced for anyone to afford. The district may be a little gritty around the edges, but it is well on its way to a promising future. “Shreveport Common has a concentration of beautiful historic architecture, venues, fun programming, public art and surprising spaces,” says Wendy Benscoter. “Some like living in an urban neighborhood with a 20-foot tall, LED lit ART the Dalmatian. Others like that the area is less dense and offers a lower scale urban setting.” Master Gardener and downtown resident David Helms believes “it’s an exciting time to be living right here in Shreveport Common—this undiscovered jewel in our city. It’s safe, the park is lit up, it looks beautiful, and as more people come to experience the events, it’s going to steamroll more residential [opportunities] in the area.” Artist Will James, an artist working at 800 Texas Avenue, says he grew up on Sprague Street, and misses the foot traffic by families and artists in downtown. “I like that it’s coming back,” he says. “It creates a bond between the business owners and the residents of the neighborhood.” Benscoter notes that the arts and artists are the ones inspiring change in the cultural district. “I’m excited about the residential, retail and maker spaces to be developed over the next two years,” she admits. “I can’t wait to see them complete, along with all the other buildings being renovated in downtown Shreveport. I believe it is one of the safest and best places to live.” “But even more,” she exclaims, “it’s all so uniquely eclectic. There’s just no place else like Shreveport Common!”