If you're looking for a place with a bit of character, Union Square Condominiums Grand Rapids is probably already on your short list of places to check out. It's not your typical, cookie-cutter residential complex where every unit looks exactly like the one next to it. Instead, it's this massive, beautiful piece of history sitting right on the city's West Side that's been flipped into some of the coolest living spaces in the area.
I've always thought there's something inherently cool about living in a repurposed building. Union Square used to be Union High School, and you can still feel that energy when you walk through the doors. It's got that "old-school cool" vibe—literally—combined with the kind of modern updates that make city living actually comfortable.
The Vibe of Living in an Old High School
When you walk into Union Square Condominiums Grand Rapids, the first thing you'll notice is that the hallways are wide—like, really wide. You can almost imagine students rushing to class back in the day. They kept a lot of the original features, which gives the whole place a personality you just don't find in new construction. We're talking about original wood floors in some spots, exposed brick everywhere, and massive windows that let in a ton of natural light.
Because it was a school, the ceilings are incredibly high. Most units have 12-to-14-foot ceilings, which makes even a smaller one-bedroom feel like a massive loft. If you're a fan of the industrial look—think exposed ductwork and concrete—you're going to love it here. Each unit is a little different, too. Since it was converted from a school, the layouts had to follow the original classrooms, so you get these unique nooks and crannies that make the space feel personal.
The Rooftop Pool is the Real Star
Okay, we have to talk about the rooftop. If you ask anyone in town about Union Square Condominiums Grand Rapids, the first thing they'll mention is the pool. It's easily one of the best perks of living there. There aren't many places in Grand Rapids where you can go for a swim while looking out over the city skyline.
During the summer, the rooftop is the place to be. There's a hot tub that's open year-round, too, which is a total lifesaver during those brutal West Michigan winters. Imagine sitting in a steaming hot tub while the snow falls around you and the city lights are glowing in the distance—it's pretty hard to beat. There's also a nice lounge area up there and some grills, so it's basically built for hanging out with neighbors or hosting a few friends.
Let's Talk About the West Side
Location is everything, right? For a long time, the West Side of Grand Rapids was a bit of a hidden gem, but lately, it's become one of the most popular spots in the city. Union Square Condominiums Grand Rapids is right in the heart of all that action. You're just a few blocks away from Bridge Street, which has basically turned into a foodie and craft beer paradise.
You've got Butcher's Union for an incredible steak or a massive selection of bourbon, New Holland Brewing for a great outdoor patio vibe, and Jolly Pumpkin if you're into sour beers and artisan pizzas. If you're more of a morning person, Roots Brew Shop is just down the street and is one of the best spots to grab a coffee and get some work done.
The best part? You don't really need to drive if you're staying local. It's a very walkable area. You can head over to a Grand Rapids Gold game or catch a concert at Van Andel Arena, and it's just a quick Uber or a slightly longer walk across the river into the downtown core.
What's the Community Like?
One of the things I hear most about Union Square Condominiums Grand Rapids is that it actually feels like a community. In a lot of big condo buildings, people just put their heads down and walk to their door without saying a word. Here, it's a bit different. Maybe it's the shared history of the building or just the type of people who are drawn to lofts, but there's a real sense of belonging.
You'll see a mix of everyone—young professionals who work downtown, retirees who wanted to downsize and be closer to the action, and creative types who love the aesthetic. There's a fitness center on-site, which is pretty standard, but it's another place where you actually run into your neighbors and end up chatting. Plus, the building is pet-friendly, so you're bound to meet plenty of four-legged residents in the elevators or out on a walk.
The Practical Stuff: Parking and Storage
I know, talking about parking isn't as exciting as talking about rooftop pools, but it matters. If you've ever lived in a city, you know that parking can be a total nightmare. Union Square Condominiums Grand Rapids actually has a gated parking lot, which is a huge plus. Some units even come with garage space, which is a massive win when you don't want to scrape ice off your windshield in February.
Storage is another thing that people often worry about with loft living. Because the ceilings are so high, a lot of people have built "up" to create extra storage space inside their units. The building also has some additional storage options if you've got bikes, kayaks, or all those holiday decorations that you only need once a year.
Is It Worth the Investment?
If you're looking at Union Square Condominiums Grand Rapids from an investment standpoint, it's historically been a pretty solid bet. The West Side is continuing to grow, and the demand for unique, high-quality housing in Grand Rapids doesn't seem to be slowing down anytime soon.
The HOA fees are something to keep in mind, of course. They cover things like the pool, the fitness center, snow removal, and the general upkeep of such an old, massive building. While no one loves paying monthly fees, when you see how well the common areas are maintained and consider the amenities you're getting, it usually makes a lot of sense.
A Few Things to Consider
No place is perfect, and Union Square has its quirks. Because it's an older building, the soundproofing isn't always 100%—you might hear the occasional footstep from the neighbor above you. And while the industrial look is cool, it's not for everyone. If you prefer carpeted floors and beige walls, this might feel a little "raw" for your taste.
Also, the units can vary wildly in price and layout. Some are small studios that are perfect for a single person, while others are massive multi-story units that feel like a full-sized house. It really comes down to what you need and what's available on the market at the time.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, Union Square Condominiums Grand Rapids offers a lifestyle that's hard to replicate elsewhere in the city. It's got that perfect blend of history, modern convenience, and a location that puts you right in the middle of everything that makes Grand Rapids great.
Whether you're drawn in by the idea of living in an old high school classroom or you just really want that rooftop pool access for your summer weekends, it's a place that feels like home the moment you walk in. If you get a chance to tour a unit, take it. Even just seeing the way they've preserved the building is worth the trip. It's a landmark for a reason, and for the people who live there, it's one of the best spots in town to call home.