Cleveland Real Estate News

Life is so much better when you can approach each day with passion and joy. I can’t claim to do this every single day, but I try. Ever meet someone who inspires you, who models this passion and joy on a daily basis? Well I’m going to introduce you to two people who do just that. They are Koula and George Lazar, the talented and passionate owners of Something Different Gallery in Ohio City. In a world where people just seem to buzz through more often than not, Koula and George have their feet on the ground as they take in everything that goes on in Ohio City. They also welcome everyone into their shop with a genuineness that is hard to find these days.

 

 It’s no wonder then, that Something Different Gallery is an experience, not just a shop. On any given month you might find a gorgeous bronze coffee table, exquisite floor lamps with hand blown glass shades, jewelery, art and everything in between. They are located at 1899 W. 25th Street, one shop south of Gould Court (you know, the alley that takes you to the vast parking lot behind the West Side Market). This past month they featured Hudson Beach Glass, full of light and wonderful colors. The Gallery’s vendors are all unique and talented and cover all price ranges.

 

The first time I visited Something Different Gallery, I was greeted warmly by Koula who offered me a glass of wine. It was as if I was already an old friend. This is no lie, there are times when I stop in to see Koula on my way to the Hanna office just because I know she can put a smile in my heart that will last for the rest of the day. While Koula may be the most vivacious, George is just as likely to be seen outside cleaning out potted plants, sweeping up debris, making sure the neighborhood (not just in front of their store) is gorgeous and clean.

 

They are ardent supporters of the Cleveland art scene.  Every Thursday they meet (by appointment) with potential new clients (do you have a talent not yet featured locally? You just might want to contact them).

 

They have special events each month and they include things like featuring artists with new book releases, featuring glass and jewelry artisans.

 

I am hoping, in a few months when it’s allowed, that Something Different will become a part of Localism, a social community being established in a broader way this year, by the folks at Active Rain. I know they would be an incredible asset to the Ohio City community we are building on Localism.

 

 

Koula was a bartender at a place called Theo’s on Pearl in Old Brooklyn. I can only imagine that everyone who frequented Theo’s became her friend. That’ s  how she is. One year she had a visitor from Greece and to make a few dollars (or pay for drinks!) he started making belts. After a while, Koula was selling the belts. One thing led to another and she decided to open a shop. Koula was still bar tending full time and operating her shop full time. So for a few years, she was working 24/7. All those Theo’s customers however, provided people who would come in and tell her about themselves and what kind of art or creation they had to offer. Her list of vendors increased. The original bldg was (from the sound of it) a three level town house style bldg. She showed me a photo and it was very cool.

 

The CVS store on Pearl in Old Brooklyn? Well, Something Different Gallery operated at that location for years until CVS displaced them about 12 years ago. Thus the move to Ohio City and the rest is history.

 

I buy earrings there of course; and cards; many of the artists they feature do Cleveland themed cards. I’m currently obsessed with one artist who does black and whites of our steel mills and iron bridges. They have fabrics and purses and silver pieces and did I mention the art? Fabulous art. I could go on and on.

 

They are getting ready to celebrate their 25th Anniversary in November! 

  

Something Different is really something wonderful, just like Koula and George. Stop in if you haven’t had the experience. You can have a warm welcome, a glass of wine, and if you buy a gift, the most exquisite gift wrapping you have ever seen.  

 

They don’t have an active website or blog (!!!) but you can reach them by phone at 216-696-5226 or via email at georgekoula@aol.com. Sooo many people already know about this wonderful shop, but just in case you do not, do yourself a favor and go visit!

 

Peace Out - 3C