There are two parts to me. The one that craves the solitude of a writer’s retreat in a rural setting, and the city girl who could totally see herself living right in the middle of what Spokane has to offer. The latter me, apparently has a lot of company. Spokane may be known as the urban hub of ag-centric eastern Washington, but the increased demand for urban living here proves Spokane has something to offer its urbanites besides occasional large-scale events that draw thousands downtown a few times a year.

According to Downtown Spokane Partnership (DSP) the urban population is currently more than 5,000 with more than 2,100 residential units. That number is expected to increase substantially in the next seven years with proposed projects. DSP’s studies show substantial interest among young adults and retirees.

Ben Volk, a representative of Country Financial, moved downtown a little over a year ago. He lives in the Edge Lofts just East of Division on Sprague. Ben says, “The relationships I’ve formed, business and personal, by placing myself in the heart of Spokane are priceless. Living here puts Spokane’s largest events and festivals within walking distance and gives me a better connection to the community and the people who make the big moves.”

Dan Spalding, a twenty-three-year resident of downtown Spokane, moved to the city center after purchasing the Longbothum Building on East Main. “I lived among the pigeons in the beginning, but it’s better now,” Dan says. “I was socially drawn to the downtown area. The things I wanted to do and see were always downtown, so I just decided to quit driving down here all the time and I made the move.” Zola and Boots Bakery now find their homes in the building he purchased and has renovated since his move 1993. Dan lives upstairs, in a stylish loft he rebuilt into a cool, funky living space.

These aren’t the only stories. There are dozens. I recently asked a handful of residents who succumbed to their urban urge, what motivated them to do so. They invited us into their “lofts” so we could share their stories with you.

SECOND RESIDENCE

Jim and Susan Cameron purchased a loft shell at 809 W. Main more than three years ago.

Why downtown Spokane? 

Briefly, no maintenance, walk to restaurants, activities and shopping. We chose a shell (unfinished). That allowed us to hire our favorite architect, Jon Saylor, and designer, Toni Brannon, who together designed the space to fit us perfectly. The building offers an excellent level of security. We have a gym on the second floor and we are the only residential building connected to the skywalk system. Lincoln Street (our garage entrance) is the only street that doesn’t close during special activities like Bloomsday and Hoopfest.

What are the challenges?

The biggest challenge we faced was having to buy a cart to transport groceries on the elevator.

Biggest Benefit of Living Downtown?

For us, living downtown allows us to have a second home in Southern California. We lock the door and get on an airplane. Coming back, we land, take a ten-minute cab, unlock our door and it’s like we never left.

Favorite thing to do?

Sunday morning, we walk to Sante, have breakfast on the patio, read the paper and enjoy a mimosa.

Downtown projects you’re excited about?

The grocery store at Kendall Yards. We’re excited to see the Macy’s building renovation take place, as well, and look forward to the revitalization of Riverfront Park.

Urban Myth Busted.

That we’d miss having a yard. Hasn’t happened.

IT FEELS SO GOOD

Joshua Hissong and his wife, Shiva, moved into a two-story loft in the Concept Home Building at 401 W. 1^st two years ago.

Why downtown Spokane? 

After years of living on the South Hill, I wanted a home that allowed me to work long hours, walk to my studio, and allowed carefree travel (no maintenance worries). It’s also an amazing way to stay connected to the growth and energy that is happening in Spokane right now. Not since the EXPO years has downtown felt so good.

What are the challenges?

So far, the only challenge we’ve faced is a neurotic dog that thinks she needs to go to the bathroom ten times a day forcing us to take her down the elevator, through the garage, to the yard, only to have her chase leaves and eat the plants. This is a challenge that we wouldn’t face with a dog door and a big yard.

Biggest Benefit of Living Downtown?

My office is a block away (Josh is a principal at HDG Architecture-PC Advertising), so I can walk out my front door and be at my desk in 45 seconds. Being a block away allows me to separate my work and home life, but still lets me switch environments immediately if I get an idea in the middle of the night or have a deadline.

Favorite thing to do?

We like to walk to the movies on Sunday afternoon and grab lunch or coffee on the way. It’s pretty priceless. The people watching is awesome from either floor of our loft, as well. We’ve seen some pretty funny stuff over the years.

Downtown projects you’re excited about? 

We just bought an 80-year-old building downtown and will begin renovating this year, so we are obviously stoked about that project, but seeing downtown come to life with more mixed use projects is genuinely exciting. The revitalization of each little building is what has kept the momentum going.

Urban Myth Busted.

That it’s unsafe, dirty and loud. We feel totally safe walking any time of day or night. Mornings are beyond peaceful: you can walk for an hour and only bump into a few people heading to the park or to a coffee shop. It’s really nice.

ROMANCE OF CITYLIFE

Two and a half years ago Jake and Emilie Krummel moved into the Jefferson Auto Lofts at 152 S. Jefferson.

Why downtown Spokane? 

Downtown is the heartbeat of the Spokane area. With so much to offer like great restaurants, breweries, wineries, the arts, and a constant bloom of new adventures, we wanted a piece of the romanticism that is urban living.

What are the challenges?

Downtown is the most diverse community in our region, and it was a challenge for us to get used to the things you see downtown. It’s different than living on the South Hill. The challenge didn’t rest with those around us but within ourselves. We adjusted our perspective and became more open to our new neighborhood. It has been a wonderful experience for which we are extremely grateful.

Biggest Benefit of Living Downtown?

Spontaneous living. We are always able to find something to do downtown. At any moment, any time, on any day there is something that we can walk or ride our bikes to.

Favorite thing to do?

Pints at River City and Ruins and an amazing meal guaranteed to wow your taste buds! Then, of course, running off those calories on the Centennial Trail through our beautiful Riverfront Park.

Downtown projects you’re excited about? 

The renovations to Riverfront Park and the ever expanding Kendall Yards.

Urban Myth Busted.

Downtown is a scary place to live. There are so many wonderful people who make up this community. Try for yourselves, the next time you are downtown, a simple hello to those you encounter will disprove this myth.