In Conway, there are a wide variety of options for people who want to experience living downtown. More than 20 blocks of historic single-family housing are within a 15-minute walk west of downtown’s core. There are modern apartments in the middle of the downtown commercial district. And finally, there are a few loft apartments above downtown businesses.
Solomon Gunyula lives in a downtown loft and experiences that lifestyle daily. After moving to Conway and renting locally, Gunyula found that downtown living offered a mix of convenience, community, and comfort that fit naturally into his routine.
Was downtown living something you actively sought, or did it happen organically?
It happened organically. I had previously rented from Covington Properties and had such a positive experience that I only wanted to rent from them again. When they showed me the downtown loft they had available, I fell in love with it on the spot. I wasn’t specifically looking to live downtown, but the quality of the space and the trust I had in Covington made it an easy yes.
What conveniences make the biggest difference in your day-to-day life?
The walkability of downtown is huge. It’s nice that I can walk to Bob’s Grill or Patio Cafe for breakfast, or stop by Blue Sail and grab a coffee. It’s a luxury not to worry about traffic first thing in the morning, plus get some exercise. Being able to start the day without getting in the car really changes how the day feels and makes mornings more relaxed.
What residential features or building amenities are most important to you?
Since I rent through Covington, the maintenance and care of the property are top-tier. This is a huge peace of mind. Knowing my home is secure and well-managed allows me to enjoy living downtown. The balcony overlooking Front Street is where I spend a lot of time. There’s a lot of activity during the day, and at night it makes a perfect reading spot. It feels like a good balance between having privacy and still being connected to what’s happening outside.
Which nearby amenities do you use most frequently?
I love meeting up with friends at Bob’s Grill or Patio Cafe. One of my favorite spots downtown is Red Curtain Theatre. I’ve seen some fantastic performances there and volunteer to help out on occasion. Having those spots so close, along with MLK Jr. Square, means I rarely leave downtown to find entertainment or relaxation. Everything I enjoy doing in my free time is within walking distance.
What do people misunderstand about the downtown lifestyle?
The biggest misconception is definitely safety, especially at night. People who don’t live downtown often assume it’s a bit sketchy at night. I love going for walks downtown late at night, and I’ve never experienced an uncomfortable situation. The police are always on patrol, and there’s a strong sense of community and security here. Living downtown has shown me that it’s not only convenient, but also calm and comfortable.