LifeStorage, a Chicago-area self-storage operator, has opened its 18th facility in the Windy City. The newest location, originally scheduled to open in May, is a seven-story structure in the River North neighborhood of the city and features a Starbucks coffee bar and fireplace in the retail office.

Since we started, our business plan has been to provide unique, upscale and affordable self-storage solutions to the communities we serve, said Michelle Wight, LifeStorage director of operations. With the River North location, we've taken a classic Chicago structureone that visually, really speaks of the city's approach to architectureand molded it into one of our most gorgeous facilities yet.

The loft building was converted from office space. Situated near downtown, it has excellent visibility, according to company officials.

Features of the new facility include 24-hour security monitoring, daily access, all climate-controlled units, covered loading and unloading, covered parking spaces, and electronic-gate access.

To coincide with the grand opening, LifeStorage is offering a free rent promotion to new customers and will also host a Carnival at River North event in September. It's a getting-to-know-us event with facility tours, music, some light fare and tasty beverages, Wight said.

The company is also converting a 114,000-square-foot retail property in the citys Lincoln Park neighborhood that will serve as its 19th self-storage facility. LifeStorage was founded in 2002 by owners Jean Jodoin and Christopher Barry.

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