The smile on Natasha's face says it all.
Moments after learning she has been named Doorperson of the Month at Chestnut Place, she beams with pride from behind the front desk, where a bin of resident packages sits nearby. For Natasha, the recognition reflects what she enjoys most about her job: taking care of the people who call the building home.
"We have a new package room, and it's my baby," she said with a laugh. "I'm very particular about how residents' packages are organized."
Natasha proudly displays her handwritten package log, carefully tracking deliveries to help ensure nothing is overlooked. She even calls residents personally to remind them when packages are waiting.
"I don't complain about Amazon Prime Days," she said with a smile.
Subscribe to Chicago Star’s Weekly City Buzz Newsletter
Natasha has worked at Chestnut Place for four and a half years after spending several years at another residential building. A change in security companies brought her to the Gold Coast property, where she quickly found a welcoming community.
"The lobby is so busy because they're bringing in plants for our brand-new rooftop space that's set to open for the Fourth of July," she said.
The 29-story apartment building is home to a diverse mix of residents, including longtime tenants and students attending Loyola University Chicago.
"I love the residents and my property manager, Chloe Zolo," Natasha said. She also appreciates the building's commitment to keeping the property updated. "We keep things current with constant remodeling," she said.
Chestnut Place, located in Chicago's Gold Coast neighborhood, is just steps from Washington Square Park and within walking distance of both the Newberry Library and Holy Name Cathedral.
The building, which was built in 1980, is in a quiet stretch of the neighborhood. The property also includes Big City Optical, Pups Pet Club, and a Circle K at the corner of State and Chestnut streets. Big Shoulders Coffee is accessible directly from the building.
Read more on Chicago Star
The Chicago Bulls select Caleb Wilson with fourth pick in the 2026 NBA Draft
The internet’s favorite World Cup obsession: How Erling Haaland became a viral sensation
No party zone: Airbnb implements anti-party technology ahead of July 4 for fifth year in a row
Jason Statham’s 13-year-old thriller dominates streaming as new movie “Shelter” tops charts
Natasha pauses to greet Blue, one of the building's many resident dogs—a small moment that reflects the warm, neighborly atmosphere she helps create each day.
Lifelong Chicagoan Natasha enjoys spending time with her family. Her daughter, Catera, and 6-year-old grandson, Keith, both live nearby. Natasha looks forward to her grandson's weekend sleepover and a family brunch on Sunday.
Natasha says, “In addition to my family, I enjoy singing in my church choir and action movies.”
Although she values her full-time day shift and weekends off, it's clear that serving residents is more than just a job. Natasha leaves no doubt why residents appreciate seeing her at the front desk.
To nominate your favorite doorperson, email [email protected] with their name and why they should be Doorperson of the Month. Winners receive a $25 Mariano’s gift card.






(0) comments
Welcome to the discussion.
Log In
Keep it Clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, racist or sexually-oriented language.
PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK.
Don't Threaten. Threats of harming another person will not be tolerated.
Be Truthful. Don't knowingly lie about anyone or anything.
Be Nice. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism that is degrading to another person.
Be Proactive. Use the 'Report' link on each comment to let us know of abusive posts.
Share with Us. We'd love to hear eyewitness accounts, the history behind an article.