Grand Rapids Telecommunications Building

The Grand Rapids Telecommunications Building occupies what used to be a working telephone exchange—the brick structure itself is the neighborhood's inheritance from an earlier era of infrastructure, now converted into condos in the heart of Heartside. That industrial skeleton means high ceilings, concrete bones, and windows that let in serious light; it also means you're steps from transit and dining that doesn't require a car. The nearest restaurant is a 2-minute walk, and there are nearly 500 of them within a mile, which sounds absurd until you realize you're living in downtown Grand Rapids' densest entertainment district. Veteran's Memorial Park is a three-minute walk away, and 32 parks dot the immediate surroundings.