The Arc At Old Colony - Living In Chicago's South Loop
For anyone thinking about a place to live in the heart of Chicago, especially if you're a student or just love city life, there's a truly special spot known as the Arc at Old Colony. It's actually a piece of Chicago's rich past, brought back to life, offering a warm and welcoming home right in the bustling South Loop area. You see, it gives you a chance to be part of something with real history while enjoying all the comforts of today's living, which is that kind of blend many people look for.
This remarkable building, located at 37 West Van Buren Street, is more than just a collection of apartments; it's a community that, you know, has been thoughtfully created within the walls of a grand old office building. It’s been given a fresh purpose, transforming into a place where people can settle in and feel at home. With its prime location, it puts you right where the action is, pretty much near everything you might need or want to explore in the city.
Whether you're looking for a cozy studio or a larger shared space with friends, the Arc at Old Colony, in some respects, has a variety of choices for different living arrangements. It’s a spot that, basically, makes city living feel a little more connected and a little less overwhelming, giving folks a true sense of belonging in a big place like Chicago. You could say it’s quite a neat setup for anyone seeking convenience and a bit of character in their dwelling.
Table of Contents
- What's Special About The Arc at Old Colony?
- Where Exactly is The Arc at Old Colony?
- Who Calls The Arc at Old Colony Home?
- Can You See The Arc at Old Colony Before You Move In?
- Staying Connected - Managing Your Home at The Arc at Old Colony
What's Special About The Arc at Old Colony?
So, what makes this particular spot stand out among the many places to live in a big city like Chicago? Well, it's quite a bit more than just walls and a roof. The Arc at Old Colony brings together a rich historical background with all the practical features you'd expect from a modern place to call your own. It's that blend of old-world charm and up-to-date conveniences that truly sets it apart for those seeking a unique living experience in the city, really.
The building itself has a story, which, you know, adds a layer of depth to living there. It’s not a brand-new structure trying to fit in; it’s a long-standing fixture of the city that has been thoughtfully updated for today's residents. This means you get a sense of connection to Chicago's past, while also having a comfortable and functional home. It’s kind of like living inside a piece of art that also happens to be very practical.
And then there's the whole atmosphere. Living at the Arc at Old Colony tends to be about being part of a community, a group of people who share a common desire for city living that's both exciting and comfortable. It's a place where you can come home after a busy day and feel a sense of calm, even though you're right in the middle of everything, which is pretty neat if you ask me.
A Fresh Start for a Grand Old Building - The Arc at Old Colony's History
The story of the Arc at Old Colony actually begins way back in 1893, or maybe 1894, when it was first put together as the Old Colony office building. It was, apparently, designed by the architectural group Holabird & something or other, and it was considered a real masterpiece of its time. Just think about that for a moment – living in a building that has stood for over a century, witnessing so much of Chicago's growth and change. It's quite something, you know.
For many years, it served as a place for businesses, with people going about their daily work within its walls. But as cities evolve, so do their buildings, and this grand structure was given a wonderful new purpose. It went through a rather significant change, a huge project that, as a matter of fact, cost around $58 million. This big effort by CA Ventures LLC and MCJ Development transformed it from an office space into a welcoming home for people.
This transformation resulted in a number of places to live – about 137 apartments, or perhaps 120, depending on which account you go by, but either way, quite a few. Students, in particular, started moving into these newly prepared homes on August 21st, marking a fresh chapter for this historical structure. It's quite a neat thing to see an old building get a second life, especially one that becomes a place where people can truly settle down and feel comfortable, which is really what happened here.
What Kinds of Places to Live Are There at The Arc at Old Colony?
When you're thinking about moving into a spot like the Arc at Old Colony, one of the first things you'll probably wonder about is what kind of homes are available. Well, you'll be happy to know there's a pretty good selection to pick from, which is nice because different people have different needs. They offer places that range from cozy studio layouts all the way up to larger homes with four separate sleeping areas, giving you quite a bit of choice, you know.
So, if you're someone who prefers their own private space, maybe a studio or a one-bedroom setup would be just the thing. These are, essentially, perfect for individuals who want a quiet retreat after a busy day, or perhaps a couple looking for a snug place to call their own. They offer a comfortable size for everyday living without feeling too big, which, frankly, can be a good thing in a city.
On the other hand, if you're planning to live with friends, or perhaps you just like having more room to spread out, the two, three, or even four-bedroom places might be a better fit. These larger units provide plenty of space for shared living, giving everyone their own area while still having common spaces for hanging out. It’s a practical solution for roommates or, you know, anyone who just needs that extra bit of room for their stuff or activities, making it quite versatile.
Where Exactly is The Arc at Old Colony?
Location, as they say, is a very important part of finding a good place to live, and the Arc at Old Colony, as a matter of fact, has a rather good one. It's situated at 37 West Van Buren Street in Chicago, Illinois, right in the heart of what's known as the South Loop neighborhood. This specific spot, you know, puts you right in the middle of all the city's happenings, making it super convenient for getting around and experiencing everything Chicago has to offer.
The South Loop is a pretty dynamic part of the city, known for its mix of historical buildings, modern developments, and a lively atmosphere. Being in this area means you're just steps away from various cultural spots, places to eat, and entertainment options. It’s a neighborhood that, apparently, has a bit of everything, which is why so many people are drawn to it for living and working.
You're also in a very central spot, which means that while you're in Chicago, the nearby cities like Hines, Cicero, Oak Park, Elmwood Park, and River Forest are, you know, not too far off. This might be useful for visiting friends or family, or if you happen to commute a bit further out for some reason. It truly places you at a good hub for city and regional travel, which is really quite a benefit.
Getting Around from The Arc at Old Colony
One of the biggest advantages of living at the Arc at Old Colony is, essentially, how easy it is to get to various places, especially if you're a student. The building is within comfortable walking distance of several major university campuses, which is a huge plus for anyone attending classes. We're talking about places like the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC), Columbia College Chicago, and a whole bunch of other "Loop U" campuses, which is, you know, incredibly convenient.
Imagine being able to roll out of bed and, basically, walk to your classes without having to worry about long commutes or finding a ride. This freedom can, quite frankly, make a huge difference in your daily routine, giving you more time for studying, social activities, or just relaxing. It really simplifies the whole academic experience, which is something many students look for in a place to live.
Beyond the university connections, being in the South Loop means you're also very well-connected to Chicago's extensive public transportation system. This means getting to other parts of the city for work, fun, or errands is usually pretty straightforward. You can, for instance, easily hop on a train or bus to explore different neighborhoods, visit museums, or catch a show, making the entire city feel very accessible from your home at the Arc at Old Colony.
What's the Deal with Parking at The Arc at Old Colony?
Now, when it comes to living in a busy city like Chicago, especially in a central spot like the South Loop, one thing that often comes up is the question of parking. And for the Arc at Old Colony, it's pretty clear: there isn't any parking right there at the building itself. This is, you know, fairly common for older buildings in dense urban areas, where space is at a premium and public transport is often the preferred way to get around, as a matter of fact.
However, that doesn't mean you're completely out of luck if you have a car. While you won't find a spot directly on the property, there are, apparently, parking options nearby. This usually means looking for public parking garages or lots in the surrounding South Loop area. It might take a little bit of searching to find the best fit for your needs, but options do exist, which is good to know.
It's also worth remembering that because the Arc at Old Colony is so well-connected to public transportation and is within walking distance of so many places, many residents might find they don't really need a car for their daily activities. This can, in some respects, save you a lot of money and hassle. But if you do have a vehicle, you'll just need to factor in finding a spot in one of the nearby facilities, which, you know, is typically how it goes in a big city.
Who Calls The Arc at Old Colony Home?
So, who are the people who choose to make the Arc at Old Colony their place to live? Well, based on what we know, it's largely a community that caters to students. It's set up as a student apartment community, which means it's really designed with the needs and lifestyle of university-goers in mind. This creates a rather specific kind of atmosphere, one that's likely full of energy and academic focus, you know.
With its closeness to UIC, Columbia College Chicago, and other Loop campuses, it makes perfect sense that many of its residents are individuals pursuing their studies. This means you're likely to find yourself among peers who are going through similar experiences, whether it's late-night study sessions, group projects, or just, you know, navigating university life in a big city. It can be a very supportive environment, actually.
Beyond just students, the general appeal of living in the South Loop, with its vibrant mix of city life, cultural spots, and easy access to everything, also draws a diverse group of people. So, while it's primarily a student community, it's also a place for anyone who appreciates the convenience and excitement of downtown Chicago living. It's pretty much a place for those who want to be right in the middle of it all, which is a great thing.
Can You See The Arc at Old Colony Before You Move In?
It's a big decision to pick a new place to live, especially if you're moving to a new city or just want to get a real feel for a spot before you commit. And when it comes to the Arc at Old Colony, you might be wondering if you can actually get a look at the apartments and the building itself before you sign anything. The good news is, yes, you absolutely can, which is a very helpful thing, obviously.
They offer virtual tours, which are, you know, incredibly handy these days. This means you can take a look around the studio, one, two, three, and four-bedroom student apartments right from wherever you are, using your computer or phone. It’s a way to explore the different layouts, see the common areas, and get a sense of the space without having to be there in person, which is pretty convenient if you're planning a move from a distance.
These virtual tours let you, in a way, walk through the different rooms, giving you a better idea of the size, the light, and the overall feel of each type of home. It’s a great tool for narrowing down your choices and deciding which floor plan might be the best fit for your needs and preferences. So, yes, you can definitely get a good visual sense of what living at the Arc at Old Colony would be like before you even step foot inside, which is a neat feature.
Staying Connected - Managing Your Home at The Arc at Old Colony
Once you've settled into your new place at the Arc at Old Colony, managing your home life is, thankfully, made pretty straightforward. They have systems in place that allow residents to handle common tasks with ease, which, you know, really helps make daily living a bit smoother. It's all about making sure you can focus on your studies or your city adventures, rather than getting bogged down by administrative stuff, basically.
For instance, if you need to take care of your rent, you can do that online. There's a way to log in to your account, which allows you to manage your payments without any fuss. This means you can, you know, pay your rent from your laptop or phone, whenever it's convenient for you, rather than having to deal with paper checks or going somewhere in person. It’s a very modern approach, which is good.
And if something in your home needs a little attention, like a repair or some maintenance, requesting help is also quite simple. You can use the same system to put in a request for maintenance services. This helps ensure that any issues are, apparently, reported quickly and can be addressed by the team. It’s all about making sure your living experience at the Arc at Old Colony is as comfortable and hassle-free as possible, which is really what you want in a place to live.
arc - Wiktionary
Parts Of A Circle Arc
boutique archerie medievale
