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Behind the Scenes of Playhouse Square Real Estate

In March 2020, as the world paused, CRESCO Real Estate took its first steps into the Playhouse Square District, partnering with one of Cleveland’s most iconic neighborhoods. Led by Connor Redman and Alex L. Russo, SIOR, the team secured office listings at a time when most were scaling back. What began as a leap of faith during a global shutdown has since grown into a community-driven office environment. Today, Playhouse Square offers flexible office space for everyone, from startups to Fortune 500s, proving it’s a place where businesses of all sizes can thrive.

A City on the Rise – And So Are Cleveland Businesses 

Just this spring, CRESCO’s Retail Team helped bring three new unique retail tenants to the PSQ district as seen on WKYC:

Something Good Social Kitchen by Ricky Smith’s Random Acts of Kindness Everywhere (RAKE) – A feel-good burger and hot dog joint with a mission rooted in kindness and community, which actually debuted with their grand opening later this past month.

Ben & Jerry’s – Your favorite flavors, now just steps away from the Marquee, with talk of opening later summer or early fall.

Encore – A stylish cocktail lounge perfect for post-show hangouts or happy hour meetings aiming for a fall opening.

These aren’t just cool places to eat and drink, they’re markers of momentum – shoutout to Ryan Fisher, Alex Smith, Cameron Callahan, and Austin Love for knocking these deals out of the park! And with CRESCO behind the deals, this energy is only growing. Want a closer look at the vibe? Dive into a tour of Playhouse Square right here!

From First Steps to Full Growth – Backstage at Playhouse Square

Backstage at PSQ, a 24,000 SF co working space inside the iconic Hanna Building, is redefining flexibility in the heart of Playhouse Square. A CRESCO and Playhouse Square collaboration offering furnished offices, and open workstations with Wi-Fi, newly renovated conference rooms, a café, and all-inclusive utilities.

With attached parking garages and walkable dining, Backstage blends convenience, comfort, and community. All in one spotlight worthy location.

Spotlight on Little Ouchies

Little Ouchies began as a personal solution and quickly grew into a nationally reaching brand. Created by an engineer for his wife diagnosed with autism, the company makes soft, quiet stim tools for those with sensory sensitivities. After launching in a starter suite at Backstage, demand soared – leading to a larger facility, a full team, and continued growth right here in Playhouse Square. We are excited Backstage could provide the flexibility needed to launch and accelerate its growth.

It’s not just a business success – it’s a Cleveland success.

Let’s Talk Opportunity

From curtain calls to lunch breaks, this is the energy people are talking about. The lights are on, the streets are full, and Playhouse Square is open for business.

Whether you’re a startup looking to scale, a creative in need of flexibility, or a team looking for a downtown address, we’ve got the right fit:

· Model suites, renovated conference facilities, customizable layouts

· Exclusive Tenant Perks

· Proximity to transit, theaters, restaurants, and nightlife

· All within CRESCO’s Playhouse Square portfolio of premier office properties

And when businesses plant roots here, they’re joining a community that supports success.

Have a business idea? Ready to grow? Want to be part of something buzzing? Let’s connect!

Connor Redman
Vice President
Direct +1 216 525 1493
[email protected]
Playhouse Square Opportunities

 

 

Alex L. Russo, SIOR
Senior Vice President
Direct + 1 216 525 1495
[email protected]
Playhouse Square Opportunities

 

 

Meet our Retail Team and Opportunities!

Ryan Fisher
Senior Vice President
Direct + 1 216 525 1497
[email protected]

 

 

 

Alex Smith
Senior Associate
Direct + 1 216 525 1490
[email protected]

 

 

 

Cameron Callahan
Associate
Direct + 1 216 232 4101
[email protected] 




Austin Love
Associate
Direct + 1 216 525 1395
[email protected] 


 

 

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To learn more about how CRESCO, Greater Cleveland’s leading commercial real estate company, can help you with your property needs, contact us at 216.520.1200, or fill out the form below. A CRESCO professional will contact you shortly.