Welcome to Inside Optima®: Resident Stories, a series that takes you behind the scenes of life in Optima’s dynamic communities. Through intimate conversations with our residents, we’re exploring the diverse experiences, unique lifestyles, and vibrant cultures that flourish within Optima’s architecturally stunning buildings. Join us as we discover what makes living in an Optima® community not just a choice of residence, but a way of life. In this conversation, we sat down with Arielle Band, resident and founder of “Lunch with Friends” at Optima Lakeview®.

How long have you been a resident at Optima Lakeview® and what got you there?
My teenage daughter and I moved to Chicago from Maryland in July 2023. Optima Lakeview® was the only building we visited because we fell in love with it right from the start. The layouts were great for us, the feeling of walking into the atrium flooded with light is amazing and all the amenities are fantastic. — including the gym, the pool, the pickleball court, and the community spaces. Honestly, the building kind of spoke to us. It was a little above our budget, but we were willing to make the stretch because the lifestyle it gives us makes all the difference. I was familiar with the Lakeview neighborhood prior to moving which helped us settle in, along with the fact that my daughter’s school is a short distance from Optima Lakeview®. And once we got here, Maike, the property manager, immediately began to introduce us to folks, making us feel welcomed and comfortable.

Can you tell us how “Lunch with Friends” came to be?
The Optima Lakeview® property team makes a lot of effort to help build and engage the community, and it’s fantastic the way they host regular events that give all of us opportunities to meet each other and create connections. It’s an enormous help for the many of us who are new to Chicago — and particularly those of us who also work from home and find it more challenging to build new relationships because our colleagues are all scattered around the world.

After a few months, I found that some of the social events like wine nights were getting so popular and drawing bigger crowds that it became a little harder to meet new people. So it occurred to me that it would be fantastic to create a subgroup of residents who are around the building during the day, working. I figured, ‘I am in my apartment all day every day and there are plenty of others at Optima Lakeview® doing the same thing. Why don’t we get together once a month, grab lunch, and get to know each other a little bit?’

I first brought the idea to Nick, who was the former leasing manager, and he took it to Maike. And Maike helped make things happen from there. He promotes the gatherings via our building app and with signage in prominent places, and arranges for catering.

Pretty simple! That’s how “Lunch with Friends” began — launched in January 2024.

What does a typical gathering look like for your group?
We meet in the Residents’ Club at lunchtime, and there are typically 20-30 of us. We use the long communal table that seats 12 and the smaller tables for 4 to 6 people, so the gathering is comfortable and intimate. People filter in, grab food, find a seat and get to chat with people they haven’t met before, or others they’ve met but don’t see often. It’s so great how you very naturally wind up having some first conversations with neighbors or deepening relationships you’ve already started.

Can you share a memorable experience or conversation from one of your gatherings?
Back in February, one of the residents who came to lunch is an airline pilot, who is at home on days that he isn’t flying. The rest of us were so curious about what it’s like to be a pilot that we clustered around him to ask questions and hear about his experiences. By the end of that lunch, we had all decided we wanted to change careers and become pilots!

At another lunch, I met a neighbor who had just moved to the building and they moved to Optima Lakeview® because there had been a fire in her home. She too has children, and so I was able to tell her about some of the great amenities and activities for kids in the building and neighborhood.  Really, the conversations are just natural and organic, and run the gamut from our work lives to our personal lives.

At Optima®, we are committed to promoting a lifestyle that not only embraces luxury and design but also prioritizes wellness and active living. One of the cornerstones of achieving this vibrant, healthy lifestyle is indoor cycling, an activity available at many of our communities through state-of-the-art fitness centers. Indoor cycling isn’t just a fleeting fitness trend; it’s a comprehensive workout with extensive health benefits that align perfectly with the dynamic and health-conscious lives of Optima® residents.

Cardiovascular Improvement
Indoor cycling is a high-intensity, low-impact exercise making it suitable for people of all fitness levels. Regular sessions on a stationary bike can significantly boost cardiovascular health. It raises the heart rate, pumps oxygenated blood more efficiently, and decreases the risk of coronary artery diseases. Optim®a residents can enjoy these sessions in a community setting, making heart health a collective goal.

Enhanced Muscle Endurance and Strength
While cycling primarily targets the lower body, it is also beneficial for strengthening core and lower back muscles. The resistance feature of indoor bikes helps in building muscle endurance. Over time, participants notice enhanced strength in their calves, hamstrings, quadriceps, and glutes. Additionally, maintaining proper posture on the bike also engages the abdominal muscles, promoting core stability and strength which is essential for overall body balance and functionality.

Weight Management
Indoor cycling can burn anywhere from 400 to 800 calories per hour, depending on the intensity of the workout and the rider’s body weight. This makes it an excellent option for Optima® residents looking to manage or lose weight. Consistent participation in cycling classes can help maintain a healthy metabolism and aid in body fat reduction, contributing to better weight management over time.

Low Impact on Joints
For those concerned about joint health, especially in the knees and ankles, indoor cycling provides a robust workout with minimal risk. The low-impact nature of cycling makes it a safer exercise, reducing the strain and wear on joints compared to high-impact exercises like running. This is particularly beneficial for aging residents or those with joint concerns, allowing them to stay active without exacerbating injuries.

Stress Reduction and Mental Health Benefits
Exercise is a known stress reliever, and indoor cycling is no exception. The rhythmic pedal movements can help clear the mind, much like a meditative practice. Endorphins released during vigorous exercise are natural mood lifters. Optima®’s serene and beautifully designed fitness spaces further enhance this experience, making each cycling session a mental escape as much as a physical workout.

Convenience and Community
One of the best parts about indoor cycling at Optima® is the convenience it offers. Residents don’t need to worry about weather conditions or traffic; they can simply head to the community fitness center. Furthermore, cycling classes can foster a sense of community among residents, as they encourage each other and share in the journey of health and wellness together. This social aspect of indoor cycling can lead to increased motivation and a more enjoyable fitness experience.

As we continue to innovate and enhance the living experiences at Optima®, indoor cycling remains a key component of our wellness initiatives. Whether you’re a beginner just testing the waters or an avid cyclist looking to maintain your regimen, the cycling studios at Optima® are designed to meet your needs. We invite all our residents to explore the benefits of this invigorating exercise, embrace a healthier lifestyle, and enjoy the journey towards personal wellness within our thriving community.

Indoor cycling is more than just pedaling; it’s a path to better health, a chance to unwind, and a way to connect with your neighbors. At Optima®, we’re proud to support each resident’s health journey, providing the tools and opportunities to thrive physically and mentally.

At Optima®, we’re continually exploring ways to enhance the well-being of our residents, encouraging practices that foster a healthy lifestyle. Among the myriad activities available within our communities, strength training stands out for its significant benefits, both physical and mental, contributing to a healthier, more vibrant lifestyle, aligning perfectly with our commitment to holistic living. So whether you’re a seasoned weightlifter or just starting out, there’s never been a better time to embrace the power of strength training for a healthier, happier you.

Strength training, also known as resistance training, involves exercises designed to improve muscle strength and endurance. By using weights, resistance bands, or your body weight, strength training activities work to gradually increase the resistance muscles face, promoting muscle growth and strength over time. It’s a versatile form of exercise, accessible to individuals at any fitness level, making it a staple in our state-of-the-art fitness centers across Optima® communities.

To experience the greatest physical benefits from strength training, it’s best to establish a consistent
routine, working out at least two times per week. With this regular, consistent approach, you can expect:

Increased muscle mass and strength: Regular strength training naturally leads to increased muscle mass and strength, which can significantly enhance daily life functionality. From carrying groceries to climbing stairs, stronger muscles make everyday activities easier and less taxing.

Enhanced bone health: Strength training is pivotal in maintaining bone density and combating osteoporosis. The pressure exerted on bones during these exercises triggers bone-forming cells, leading to stronger, denser bones.

Boosted metabolic rate: Muscle tissue burns more calories at rest compared to fat tissue. Thus, increasing muscle mass through strength training can boost your metabolic rate, aiding in weight management and reducing the risk of obesity.

Improved posture and balance: As muscles strengthen, particularly those in the core, posture and balance see noticeable improvements. This can lead to a reduction in back pain and a lower risk of falls, particularly important as we age.

Enhanced flexibility and mobility: Contrary to the myth that strength training makes one bulky and stiff, it actually improves flexibility and joint range of motion when performed correctly.

At the same time, strength training brings significant mental health benefits, including:

Stress relief: Strength training is a powerful stress-buster. The focus required during a session can serve as a form of mindfulness, diverting attention away from daily worries and reducing stress levels.

Boosted confidence and self-esteem: Achieving goals in strength training, whether lifting a heavier weight or completing more repetitions, can significantly boost confidence and self-esteem. This sense of accomplishment often transcends the gym, impacting other areas of life positively.

Improved cognitive function: Regular physical activity, including strength training, has been shown to enhance cognitive function, potentially lowering the risk of cognitive decline as we age.

At Optima®, we understand the value of community in maintaining a consistent fitness routine. Our fitness centers are spaces where residents come together, sharing goals, and supporting each other’s wellness journeys. Strength training sessions, whether individually, with a personal trainer, or in a group class, foster a sense of camaraderie and collective achievement. We’re proud to offer the facilities and the environment that encourage and support our residents in integrating strength training into their lifestyles, ensuring they reap all the benefits it has to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned weightlifter or just starting out, there’s never been a better time to embrace the power of strength training for a healthier, happier you.

Optima® Voices: Conversations with Our Property Teams is a series that brings you closer to the individuals who make our communities thrive. Through these interviews, we’re shedding light on the dedicated staff behind the seamless operation of Optima’s properties, highlighting their passion, experiences, and the personal touches they bring to enhancing the living experience for residents. Join us as we explore the stories of those who deliver — day in and day out — the quality of living that makes Optima® communities extraordinary. Today, we’re talking with Tanya Osman, Property Manager at Optima Signature®.

Tell us a bit about your background and the role you play at Optima Signature®.
I grew up helping my mother’s real estate business and knew this was the industry for me at a very young age. This experience provided me with a unique perspective on how to effectively navigate the challenges and opportunities within residential management. I started my own business in residential sales over 15 years ago that evolved from selling single family homes in Florida to managing luxury high rise apartment buildings in Chicago.

At Optima Signature®, I manage the day-to-day operations, handle resident relations, address maintenance issues and ensure the property’s overall well-being. My experience is rooted in a commitment to delivering excellent service and maintaining a positive living experience for residents.

How did you begin your journey at Optima Signature®?
I managed luxury communities in River North for 6 years until January of 2022, when I was presented with the opportunity to oversee Optima Signature®.  I embraced the chance to bring everything I knew to the table about operations, sales, and resident satisfaction. I was so excited to start the new journey in Streeterville (funny fact – I have not managed a building that was not on Illinois Street – in River North both building’s I managed were on West Illinois Street and at Signature I am on East Illinois Street. I like to say that I moved to Chicago to work on Illinois Street).

What drew you to Optima Signature® initially?
A significant draw for me was the captivating design of the building. The aesthetic appeal and expansive amenities were also factors. I was excited for the challenge of overseeing a larger community than those I’ve managed previously.

How do you view the concept of community at Optima Signature®? How does it differ from other properties/buildings?
The concept of community at Optima Signature® is integral to fostering a positive living experience. We create a sense of engagement among the residents through regular monthly events and personalized services. Optima®’s values help in creating a more connected and vibrant living environment compared to other buildings.

Optima® has a unique set of values that differentiates it from other company cultures. How does that affect the quality of your work life? What values matter most to you?
Optima®’s core values place emphasis on collaboration and innovation. The shared values contribute to a harmonious work environment and allows to maintain high standards in property management. The value that matters most to me is: “There is a solution to every problem.” We are faced with unique challenges on a daily basis and working for a company that allows you to take ownership and be creative makes it fun to find solutions.

What are some things you’re learning since joining the Optima Signature® team?
Since joining the Optima Signature® team, I’ve been actively learning and adapting to the unique dynamics of the property. Everyday there is an opportunity to improve my communication and problem solving skills by learning the specific needs/preferences of our residents and overcoming new objections from both prospects and the leasing team.

What makes you most proud to be a part of the Optima Signature® team?
I am so proud to be a part of the Optima Signature® team! Our team has a collaborative spirit and is dedicated to resident satisfaction. I love coming into the office to smiling faces and hearing everyone’s ideas! We have a beautiful community and team and that makes me proud!

As Optima®’s Scottsdale communities continue to flourish, residents are presented with an extraordinary opportunity to embark on a culinary journey that blends the best of both worlds: modern dining experiences nestled within the walls of historic homes. These establishments not only offer a glimpse into Scottsdale’s rich past but also serve as a testament to the area’s evolution into a vibrant, contemporary city.

These new dining venues are part of a trend nationwide, where local developers and chefs are transforming old homes into culinary hubs for the surrounding neighborhoods. In Phoenix, we see innovative approaches to sustainably preserve historic homes while serving the economic needs of the neighborhood.

Here are just a few of the restaurants popping up in our own backyard:

The Farish House, standing proudly at the threshold of the 20th century and now a recognized member of the Phoenix Historic Property Register, narrates a tale of transformation through the ages. Constructed in 1899 by Howard Cassidy and later becoming the home of Phoenix’s first city manager, William A. Farish, and his wife Jane in 1901, this building has journeyed from a single-family residence to a multi-faceted space with duplexes, an art gallery, and various business offices over the years. Located in the vibrant Evans Churchill neighborhood of downtown Phoenix, The Farish House has evolved into a cozy bistro that honors its rich history with a menu of timeless classics like ratatouille, mac and cheese, and beef stew, all while sharing a landlord with the neighboring Songbird Coffee and Tea House.

In the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, The House Brasserie invites patrons into a world where French elegance meets modern American cuisine. Operating from a residence constructed in 1939 by the pioneering Mowry family, this restaurant carries forward the legacy of Arizona’s early settlers through its innovative menu and the preserved charm of the original home. The Mowrys’ spirit of hope and hard work is echoed in the delightful dishes and the preserved rose bushes that symbolize their lasting impact on the Scottsdale community.

Meanwhile, Garden Bar offers a unique “garden to glass” experience from a 1914 California bungalow, blending the historical essence of downtown Phoenix with contemporary mixology.  This spot offers some classic, nostalgic and whimsical cocktails along with curated grazing boards, truffle parmesan popcorn and pretzel bites.  They also have a Bespoke Cocktail Experience that ties mini cocktails into the history of the house, during WWI & II, including the Kilroy Was Here … a cocktail created after the Kilroy family that lived in the house from the 1940’s – 1960’s.  Guests can eat and drink in any of the cozy, decorated rooms, back patio or in rocking chairs on the dog-friendly front porch.

Located in a historic building in downtown Phoenix’s Heritage Square, the Diaspora Collective is a vibrant beacon within the community, inviting all to immerse in the celebration of culture and the rich tapestry of African diaspora history. More than just a space, it’s a dynamic hub where visitors connect, sharing and shaping stories of Africa and its widespread descendants. Within its embrace, Soko presents a market brimming with an exquisite array of goods crafted by Black artisans from Africa and beyond, offering a tangible connection to the diaspora’s creative spirit. Complementing this cultural journey, Latha serves as a culinary gateway, its menu a homage to the diverse food traditions spanning Africa, the Caribbean, Brazil, and the southern United States, each dish and drink a story of heritage and unity.

Nestled in a historic dwelling just a stone’s throw north of Roosevelt Row, Sottise breathes new life into the venerable Knipe House, originally crafted by the acclaimed architect Leighton G. Knipe in 1909. As one of the remaining original structures in the Roosevelt Row arts district, the building’s storied past spans designs across Phoenix, including notable works on the Arizona State University campus in Tempe. Despite enduring multiple renovations and recovering from a fire in 2010, the space found its new purpose in 2021 when TJ Culp and Esther Noh transformed it into Sottise. This modern French bistro pays tribute to the timeless elegance of French cuisine and viniculture, inviting guests to savor this homage on the home’s iconic wrap-around front porch or within the intimate confines of its dining room, each corner a whisper from the past.

Set in a restored bungalow built by a rancher in 1913, Cibo Pizzeria resides in a charming neighborhood in central Phoenix. Before becoming a pizzeria, the home was once a boarding house and a naturopathic doctor’s office, according to the restaurant’s co-owner and chef Guido Saccone. Complete with an intimate front patio, exposed brick, hardwood floors, stained glass, and a fireplace, the building became Cibo in 2005 and has been serving Italian staples ever since. Popular for its red and white pizzas, fresh salads, and housemade pasta, Cibo is a local favorite for lunch and dinner.

As Optima residents explore these historical dining venues, they’re not just savoring a meal or a cocktail; they’re partaking in a living history lesson, savoring the stories of those who came before while contributing to the ongoing narrative of the vibrant community. Through these experiences, the past and present merge, offering a taste of history with every bite and sip.

At Optima®, we celebrate not only innovative architecture and vibrant living spaces but also the timeless traditions that bring our communities together. Among these cherished traditions is the ancient game of backgammon—a pastime that transcends cultures and generations, fostering connections and friendly competition. As we delve into the basics of backgammon, we invite Optima® residents to explore the joys and strategies of this classic game, often a highlight in our communal areas.

The Essence of Backgammon
Backgammon is one of the oldest board games known to humanity, with origins tracing back approximately 5,000 years. Its enduring appeal lies in the blend of luck and strategy, offering a dynamic and engaging experience for players of all ages. The game is played on a board consisting of 24 narrow triangles, known as points, grouped into four quadrants. Each player begins with 15 checkers, maneuvered based on the roll of two dice, with the ultimate goal of bearing off all one’s checkers off the board first.

Setting Up the Board
The setup is simple yet strategic, with each player placing their checkers in a mirrored configuration across the board. The checkers are distributed as follows: five on the 6-point, three on the 8-point, five on the 13-point, and two on the 24-point. This initial setup is the starting line of a race filled with strategic advancements and blockades against your opponent.

The Gameplay
Players take turns rolling the dice to move their checkers. A checker moves forward to a point that is not occupied by two or more opposing checkers. The aspect of hitting and blocking adds a layer of tactical depth; landing on a point occupied by a single opposing checker sends that checker to the bar, forcing it to restart its journey across the board. This blend of forward momentum and defensive play makes backgammon a game of both chance and profound strategy.

Bearing Off
The climax of a backgammon game is the “bearing off” phase, where players remove their checkers from the board based on the roll of the dice. The first player to successfully bear off all their checkers wins the game. This final phase requires foresight and sometimes, a bit of luck, encapsulating the thrilling essence of backgammon.

Why Backgammon Resonates with Optima® Residents
Backgammon aligns seamlessly with the Optima® ethos of fostering community and enhancing the living experience through shared activities. It’s a game that invites residents to gather, challenge each other, and bond over a shared love for strategy and social interaction. The portable nature of backgammon sets means that residents can easily set up a game in our lush gardens, alongside the pool, or in any of our communal spaces designed for relaxation and socialization.

Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, backgammon offers a delightful way to spend an afternoon or evening. With its simple setup, complex strategies, and rich historical roots, it serves as a bridge between cultures, ages, and people. Optima® communities regularly host game nights, including backgammon tournaments, where neighbors can come together, learn from each other, and enjoy the spirited competition. It’s an opportunity to engage with the broader Optima® community, learn a new skill, and perhaps, ignite a passion for one of the oldest games in human history.