May Doorperson of the Month: Maurice Johnson, 465 North Park, 465 N. Park Dr.

Maurice Johnson’s been with 465 North Park for seven years, almost since its grand opening. The pristine white, Art Deco lobby overlooks Ogden Plaza Park, and the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Maurice leads the way up an impressive spiral staircase to an elegant office space overlooking the lobby. 

Maurice says, “Initially, the delivery of the spiral staircase was delayed. As the builders finished up, we realized we had to reopen the construction entrance to the lobby to place it properly.” 

He goes on to explain that the staff members are called Residential Experience Associates, or REAs for short, unlike many other buildings that use the terms doorperson or concierge. Another colleague shares that Maurice goes above and beyond to help the residents. 

“We do anything and everything to make the resident homemaking experience better. For example, I cataloged an entire apartment for an out-of-state move. And our team coordinated a couch delivery from Australia for a resident,” says Maurice.

On the day of our visit, Maurice had already collaborated with the maintenance team in fixing a leak. 

The job goes beyond typical package deliveries and announcing visitors. The REAs take turns roaming the building and helping wherever needed. Maurice says, “I especially enjoy helping people, and our residents are a terrific, diverse mix of people.” 

465 North has an actual garden next to the grilling area in case residents want to use fresh herbs or vegetables. There’s a 40-person oval hot tub that is shaped in such a way so as to mimic the building’s shape, which is a prominent part of Chicago’s skyline. 

465 North is a rental building with unique views thanks to its shape. “There are even duplexes incorporated into the design with great views from each floor.”

Maurice proceeds proudly to show off a gym, indoor dog run, two studio kitchens, pool, and a serene lounge area. The lounge even has a fireplace. 

Maurice is a born-and-bred Chicagoan who describes himself as a “salt of the earth” type of person–but in fact, he has traveled to every continent on Earth. He also describes himself as an avid reader. 

Maurice says his next goal is to “pick up a pickup truck” to transport a lawn mower to and from his grandmother’s house to mow the lawn for her during the upcoming summer months. There he goes again, exceeding expectations. 

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.