C.A.R. Construction's latest project in OTR celebrates history, passion

Since 2004, C.A.R. Construction has been working throughout the city of Cincinnati on commercial and residential projects.  The latest project from the family owned business includes a new three bedroom loft space in the heart of Over-the-Rhine.

"It's really a story about two brothers working together to transform this space," said Chris Reckman owner of C.A.R, who developed the space with his brother. The Reckman's father is also a developer in the downtown area.

The former warehouse at 22 E. 14th Street (map) that the Reckman brothers have been working on now boasts a first floor, five-car garage and 2,300 square feet of finished living space.  Also incorporated into the project is a green roof that incorporates a variety of recycled materials.

Chris says that the building was attractive because of its secure parking options on the first floor.  The run-down warehouse space inside also provided a host of design opportunities for the now large loft living space. 

With the 22 E. 14th Street loft now complete, the Reckman brothers are looking to move on to their next project in the neighborhood.  On tap is the building next door that will eventually include six units that the Reckman's hope to have ready by Spring 2010.

"We own five more properties in Over-the-Rhine, and we want to do more of the same," said Chris.

The redevelopment work by the Reckman brothers in Over-the-Rhine represents just a small bit of the wealth of redevelopment projects that have been taking place in the neighborhood.  Much of the work has been through the larger efforts from the Center Cincinnati Center City Development Corporation, but smaller-scale efforts like this seem to be taking hold.

"Chris Reckman is just another local entrepreneur looking to make a difference in Over-the-Rhine," said Michael Redmond, owner of Neon's Unplugged on 12th Street.  "The investment in the neighborhood is starting to become contagious; and that's a really good thing."

Writer: Randy A. Simes
Photography Provided
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