The Nati Life

I was down there last night, too! Love the pics!

I think the idea of a dog park sends signals that pet ownership downtown is feasible/encouraged. That's part of the allure of the Edge (and I believe the McAlpin), where they have dog facilities in their complex where they can run and do their business. But the idea that downtown is a versatile neighborhood that appeals to a variety of people (within a desirable demographic range, of course). If they get a dog park, then I think a lot of people will sit up and take notice that downtown is a very liveable environment.

Last I heard they were trying to sign a wine bar to the adjacent space. I don't know what the status of that is.

I don't know... I still think this thing is hideous. Unfortunately, those in the real estate community think I'm crazy when I express this sentiment. I guess no one has architectural appreciation anymore. I'm curious... in the year 2020, will we look back and say, "what the hell were we thinking?" like we do when we see '50s and '70s construction today? I mean, I'm sure they thought it was cool back then.

You're right, there aren't views, but the bigger problem is exposure. If/when that vacant lot on Fourth gets developed, this building is going to be buried back there. It may not be a big deal to residents... until they go to sell their unit. An associate of mine took a look at that awhile back. The interior is apparently a very cool space, and needs a lot of work, but didn't pull the trigger due to location - which happens to be everything in real estate.

I don't know. I think we are missing the point here. No matter how educated we are about Tender Mercies, or how little impact it actually makes, it doesn't make a difference. The problem is PERCEPTION. The perception of OTR is what needs to be changed if it is to ever pass the first phase of gentrification (the urban pioneers), which it is in currently. Case in point: As far as Washington Park, I was just down there last week at about 6 PM and was harassed by a guy wanting money from me... as I opened the door to exit my car. It didn't really bother me. But that kind of interaction is what scares off those from outside the city or other more affluent neighborhoods... especially those from the 'burbs who don't have to deal with that. Think of your typical suburbanite or higher-income city dweller. Think of them considering moving to OTR. Put yourself in their shoes as they exit their vehicle and are bothered by a panhandler... what kind of first impression is that? How does that change their perception? What story will they tell the next time they are sitting on Hyde Park Square having coffee with their friends? Given the decision between historic buildings and diversity versus daily (whether perceived or real) panhandler nuisance, what will they choose?

Awww, come on Rando! Don't get our hopes up!!! Oh, and Scott Sloan is on the air right now complaining how Cincinnati doesn't have a Hard Rock. I'm pretty sure that every suburb in Florida has a Hard Rock... they're about as unique as Friday's these days.

Frankly, I am surprised. 45 days in a real estate deal like this is nothing. Everyone knew an extension was coming, I would have guessed it would have been at the very least 90 days. This excites me, especially with word that they are not talking with any other developers for the site. They probably figure both sides are too far down the road with the project to take a step back.

Does anyone understand the reputation of Ikea and how crappy their product is? I don't have any Ikea products, but friends from around the country that have Ikea stores have told me that it has a terrible reputation. Granted, cheap praces and decent style, but I can't help but think that my first visit to Ikea will be a disappointment.

Although a signature building would be great and a symbol of progress, a building of that size could strike a large blow to the CBD office market, unless a lot of the tenants came from outside CBD. The former Convergys building (7th and Vine) is undergoing the same crisis, as it is struggling to fill the void left by Convergys in their move a few blocks south to Atrium I. I am all for a new building, believe me, it would only add to Downtown excitement. But at the same time, I would hate to see Eagle get ahead of themselves (surprise, surprise) and build before securing tenants so as not to start a "rate war." Also, the word from awhile ago was that they built GABP in "the notch" because W&S agreed behind the scenes that they would build said building. Otherwise, it would have been in Broadway Commons, and Downtown would be sandwiched between the stadiums instead of the Blanks. Ponder on that...

Rando - Thanks, that was exactly what I was trying to get at! Someone on my blog replied with "LOL" when I said that I do not consider OTR as "Downtown." I consider "Downtown" as a separate neighborhood. Is OTR considered a district of Downtown or a separate neighborhood? Same with the Banks... is it a district of Downtown or a separate neighborhood. They are clearly all central city, but that is not the same as Downtown. There are physical and sociological boundaries that separate them all.

What would you want a movie theater for? Haven't you heard? The Rave in West Chester is the place to be!!! After the movie, you can head over to Mesh and watch 60 year old divorces hit on 20-somethings all night! :shoot: Union Centre

Hey all, first time/long time! I have just posted current pictures on my new blog natilife.blogspot.com (shameless plug :-D)