RMS, the Shaker-based developers and owners of the Van Aken District, are doubling down on their investment in Shaker Heights by developing a new apartment building at the corner of Van Aken Boulevard and Farnsleigh Road. Currently in the concept design phase, the proposed development includes 229 apartments surrounded by green space and natural landscaping. The proposal meets the goals outlined in the strategic plan for this area – to establish a dense, walkable, transit-oriented neighborhood. Additionally, the project will add to the diversity of our housing stock so that Shaker is a place where housing is available for every age and stage of life.
 
This proposed development will provide an important economic boost for the City. It will activate the long-empty Farnsleigh parking lot and generate new property and income tax revenues. Increased residential density will greatly benefit the shops and restaurants in the Van Aken District and throughout Shaker Heights, and help to spur further development.
 
The proposed design includes two towers with glass facades punctuated by numerous balconies at the corners and connected by two enclosed bridges. The design is a modern interpretation of some of the classic details on homes and buildings found throughout Shaker. Just like the now-iconic Tower East, designed in 1966 by
world-renowned architect Walter Gropius, this building is an opportunity to showcase the best in design and contribute to modernizing our historic City.
 
Currently, the proposal is moving through the City’s rigorous design review and planning process. After preliminary work sessions to review early designs, the Architectural Board of Review, City Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals held regular public meetings on the proposal in March and early April. Adjustments to the design, site plan and other elements have been made as a result of these meetings. The first public hearing was April 6; you can view the presentation here. The review process will continue for the next few months and there will be additional opportunities for public input.

Fratantonio’s Barber Shop:

A Neighborhood Institution

Did you know? Fratantonio’s Barber Shop is located on the first floor of the Fairmount Medical Office Building at Fairmount Circle (20620 John Carroll Boulevard). Fratantonio’s was one of the first tenants to open in the neighborhood commercial district near John Carroll University when the building was converted from a movie theater to an office building in 1961. The shop’s interior will transport you to days gone by, as it has been maintained since it opened – the chairs are all original from the early 1960s!

Generations of families have made Fratantonio’s their go-to barber shop. Stop in for your next cut and shave. No appointment required. Cash or check only. Fratantonio’s is INSIDE the building, so enter through doors under the “Medical Building” sign to the right of Boaz.

Ellie-May’s Gourmet Cookies:
The Sweetest New Addition 

Ellie-May’s Gourmet Cookies, located between On the Rise and Chutney B., is a homegrown business from Shaker resident Ivy Dais-Burge. At the Market Hall counter, you can purchase single cookies daily (vegan and gluten-free are available only on Sundays), giant cookies for celebrating and sharing, cookie dough mixes and even customize your own cookie that bakes while you wait. Be sure to follow the Ellie-May’s Facebook page for the current cookie menu – a sure way to lure you out of your office/shop! Conveniently, Ellie-May’s offers online ordering as well as delivery and catering services.

Blossom Cleveland flower bar

Sandwiched between two of the Van Aken Market Hall’s newer food-based businesses, Domo Yakitori + Sushi and Lox, Stock & Brisket, is Blossom Cleveland, a flower bar. The flower bar is not your typical floral shop, rather you get to unleash your creativity using a most beautiful medium – flowers – to design custom bouquets. Blossom is a full-service florist offering daily arrangements, wedding services, sympathy florals, corporate and event design. Being anything but traditional, they also have a flower cart that you can invite to your private event. The flower cart will be overflowing with flowers for your guests to build their own bouquets – perfect for bridal and baby showers, birthday parties, church socials, and school and corporate events.

Kindred Spirit

Kindred Spirit is now open next to the District’s favorite houseplant oasis, Stump, in the former Sawyer’s space, with an outdoor patio that overlooks the Living Room. Offering West Coast influenced rustic Mediterranean flavors in a shareable format, Kindred Spirit is sure to be on your must-experience list. They are currently open for walk-ins and reservations. Above Kindred Spirit is Garden City, a cocktail-focused rooftop bar, so you can make a night of it – in the District.

Sanctuary by Joyce

Shaker Medical Building (3461 Warrensville Center Road) has a new tenant, Sanctuary by Joyce, which offers spa services with an emphasis on wellness. Owner Joyce Fennell is a Licensed Massage Therapist, Cosmetologist, Aesthetician, Reiki Master/teacher, Lightworker and Medical Intuitive with over 32 years of experience in the salon/spa industry. Welcome to Shaker, Joyce!

New Dermatology Office Open

The first floor of Shaker Medical Building is now home to Cosmopolitan Dermatology in the former Suburban Pediatric space, which has been expanded and fully renovated. This private, full-service dermatology practice was started by Dr. Angela Kyei, six years ago, but just opened in Shaker this past February. Dr. Kyei brings a wealth of experience and specialties to her practice, having founded the Multicultural Skin and Hair Center in the Dermatology and Plastic Surgery Institute at the Cleveland Clinic. Read more about Dr. Kyei here. We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Kyei and her team to the Shaker Heights community.

SHDC is Hiring