From higher education to a high-end Airbnb
MILLERSBURG — The former offices of higher education that used to house the University of Akron now serve as a trio of apartment suites in downtown Millersburg.
The Baker Suites opened in June 2021, at the same time everything was shut down because of the pandemic.
The University of Akron lease ended in June 2020 after 20 years in the location at 88 East Jackson St. Building owner Bill Baker worked on developing a plan with his son, Billy Baker, about how to best utilize the space.
“Dad and I brainstormed,” Billy Baker said. “We talked about tourism and how well the Airbnbs are doing in this area, so we took a chance and here we are. We put a lot more money into renovating this than we originally planned, but it has certainly been worth it.”
Business continues to grow
Each year the numbers have gotten better, according to Billy Baker, whose family also operates Millersburg Brewing Co. on the ground floor below the apartments, as well as the canning operation in the former Holmes County Hub building around the corner on North Clay Street.
“During COVID I was a little nervous,” the younger Baker added. “But, it actually had a reverse effect for us, because people from the city were looking to get out for a visit in the country. We wanted to make these high-end if we were going to do this.”
Billy Baker explained there are three different suites from which to choose, including a two-bedroom, a one bedroom and a studio suite.
A minimum stay of two nights stay is required.
They are also available for extended stay.
The peak times for bookings have been July through November, and the weekends have been pretty consistent throughout the year, he said.
The suites are set up through Baker Suites on Facebook with links to Airbnb:
● Holmes Away From Home airbnb.com/h/thebakersuitesholmes;
● Rosie’s Retreat airbnb.com/h/thebakersuitesrosie; and
● Courthouse Studio airbnb.com/h/ thebakersuitesstudio.
These apartments are second-floor walk ups. An elevator is available upon request.
A great addition to Millersburg
Holmes County Chamber of Commerce
and Tourism Bureau Executive Tiffany Gerber noted that the Baker Suites are a great addition to historic downtown Millersburg and the revitalization efforts that are taking place in the region.
“The addition of Baker Suites definitely reflects Millersburg’s reputation as a great destination for foodies, antiquers, art and event enthusiasts as well as those who appreciate small town charm,” Gerber said. “The location above two locally owned restaurants and near one the area’s newest wedding and event venues is perfect.
“From an economic impact standpoint, a traveler spends just about three times as much as they normally would if they spend the night,” she continued. “So this will have a positive impact on the health of downtown Millersburg’s merchants.”
The Holmes Away from Home is a newly renovated luxury two-bedroom en-suite apartment. The location puts visitors within walking distance to restaurants and shopping. Each bedroom is complete with a king bed and full bathroom. The kitchen features custom cabinets, stainless steel appliances (oven, refrigerator, microwave). the rate is $175 per night.
“This room features two bedrooms and two baths,” Biily Baker said. “With three units, we can accommodate small groups, and it is suitable for what each person is looking for.”
Rosie’s Retreat is an open floor plan equipped with king and full beds, custom tile bathroom (handicap accessible) and a kitchen with eat-in table/bar. This newly renovated space offers brand new finishes from floor to ceiling. The rate is $150 a night.
“This used to be one big classroom,” Billy Baker said. “We put in the kitchen and added the column. We wanted this to be like a honeymoon suite. We tried to put a bathtub in there but the plumbing wouldn’t allow it.”
The Cozy Courthouse Studio overlooks main street with views of downtown and the courtyard. It provides a fullsize day bed with a twin trundle. It was formerly a corner office of AU satellite. The studio is $100 a night.
A trundle bed is a compact bed frame and mattress that sits low enough to the ground to be stored underneath another bed. The frame has wheels, making it easy to roll out and use. This space-saving design is ideal for people who want to be able to comfortably accommodate guests but have limited room available
The full-service kitchen provides an up-close view of downtown. It is centrally located within walking distance to the brewery, restaurants and shopping.