It was Will Rogers who noted horses are smarter than people - "ever heard of a horse going broke betting on people?" But weeks before completion, this Housing and Redevelopment Authorities project, The Livery was already a sure thing taking statewide honors. The building, a 2.5-story renovation, today offers upscale apartments and first-floor retail space.

The Authorities and partners worked with The Livery, LLC, to redevelop the former stable built around 1895 and used recently as a print shop. While the exterior reflects the building's history with updated architectural details, the inside is decidedly modern. Second-floor apartments feature spiral stairways to lofts. All have designer kitchens-some, a fireplace. One goal was to preserve The Livery's historic qualities and neighborhood appeal while creating modern facilities for business and residential uses. The design is consistent with the streetscape; copper canopies and period fixtures feel at home in the Historic District. Apartment doors that open to Dickinson Avenue give the impression of leaded glass, while weathered wooden stable doors remain.

Completed in 2007, The Livery won acclaim for rehabilitating an older building and revitalization that adds business and upscale housing appealing to young professionals and older residents who shop, dine and spend leisure time downtown. Feeling down? Saddle up...at The Livery!