Doorperson of the Month - Roy Hanson, The Atwater, 355 E. Ohio St.

Roy Hanson serves as Executive Concierge at the Atwater, a luxury apartment building in Streeterville, and the lobby teems with activity.  The influx of residents, food deliveries, dog walkers, and packages is so constant that both the revolving door and Roy don’t seem to get much of a break. 

Roy’s been in customer service for his entire professional life, and seven years at The Atwater.  “My favorite part of the job is interacting with people.” He has to pause to collect a few identification cards as collateral for deliveries, and make sure that all non-residents sign in to an old school registry, complete with pen and paper.

“As Executive Concierge I make sure the doors are secure based on the time of the day, handle maintenance requests, complaints, and help out with resident events.” A monthly schedule is on the front desk and lists all kinds of events anywhere from Pilates, lobby happy hours, breakfasts, to days of recognition like National Pretzel Day.

“Originally, I grew up on the South Side, and have worked in better climates in Atlanta and Sarasota, but wanted to return home to Chicago.” Luckily, a job at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk brought him back home.

Roy enjoys living in Lincoln Square, all that is the lakefront, cooking, fine dining, and is an avid theater goer. “My top three restaurants are Gibson’s, Joe’s Seafood, and Italian Village. At the Village, the food and decor haven’t changed, and it reminds me of my childhood.”

The Atwater was built in 2007, and is almost literally “at the water,” hence the name. The amenity floor is second to none with poolside cabanas, gym, grills, and a pool table under a beautiful chandelier. “The overall recreation floor can be divided into rooms for different rental purposes. People like to use the full kitchen for cooking parties.”

“And we've got a great mix of residents: Northwestern students and doctors, families, and older residents. Of course, people have concerns about citywide safety issues, but overall, people are very happy here.” It’s obvious as the lobby hums along, that Roy has many adoring residents.

To nominate your favorite doorperson. Email info@chicagostarmedia.com with their name and why they should be doorperson of the month. Winners will receive a $25 gift card to Mariano’s.