Investing in Neighborhood Retail: A Historic Renovation on Indy’s Near East Side
I believe that historic buildings are more than just relics of the past — they’re anchors of community identity and catalysts for future investment. That’s why my latest project at 1641 E. Michigan Street has been a labor of both love and legacy.
Located in the heart of the Near Eastside, 1641 E. Michigan is a three-story brick building that has stood for over a century. It was originally built by a grocer who ran his store on the ground floor and lived upstairs with his family — a classic mixed-use setup that made neighborhoods more walkable, connected, and resilient.
But like many neighborhood buildings, 1641 fell on hard times. A pipe burst a few years ago, causing significant water damage and forcing the building into vacancy. For too long, it sat empty. My family and I decided to put together a pitch for a project that would bring life back into the building, and we got to work.
We approached this project with both intention and pragmatism. My role contributed to everything from floorplans and design specs to construction management, purchasing, and marketing. As a consultant with a background in redevelopment strategy and a personal passion for neighborhood reinvestment, I was proud to help guide this process from vision to execution.
The building is now refreshed on floors 2 and 3 and now is ready for its next chapter — one that honors its past. As we begin whiteboxing the 1st floor, we’re actively seeking a first-floor tenant who can serve as a neighborhood amenity, much like the original grocer did. It’s a chance to reactivate a historic corner, support small business, and bring new energy to a beloved block.
Envisioning the Corner (Rendering Courtesy of Jeffrey Tompkins)
If you or someone you know is looking for a thoughtfully renovated commercial space in a walkable, community-oriented area, we invite you to take a look at the listing:
This project embodies what we’re all about at Valo Advisory — leveraging design, strategy, and local know-how to bring underused spaces back into the fold.