Projects / Van Aken District

A new website for vibrant neighborhood, the Van Aken District, that both addresses their needs and reflects their rich history.

Van Aken District

Revitalizing the Van Aken District Website

Located in Shaker Heights, Ohio, the Van Aken District is an historic and vibrant neighborhood with deep roots and a renewed spirit. Named after William J. Van Aken, the city’s first mayor, and originally developed in the early 1900s by the visionary Van Sweringen brothers, the district was designed as a modern suburban extension of Cleveland and quickly became known for its elegant homes, top-tier schools, and strong community values.

After a period of decline in the mid-20th century, the Van Aken District has experienced a significant revitalization, transforming into a thriving hub filled with local shops, diverse restaurants, and entertainment venues. This fresh energy needed to be reflected in its digital presence.

In partnership with the team at HeyNow! Media, I was brought on to help design and develop a new website that captured both the rich history and the modern vibrancy of the Van Aken District. The goal was to create a digital experience that felt welcoming, dynamic, and true to the spirit of the neighborhood.

What We Did

Visual identity alignment with the district’s character

Sitemap restructuring for better navigation (clear separation between shops and dining)

Responsive, user-centered interface design

Narrative and layout structure to showcase local businesses and history

Webflow development for efficient content management

Strategy & Website Redesign

Project Overview

Working alongside Fernando Medeiros on design and Jonathan Cavalcanti on development, we crafted a site that highlights everything the district has to offer — from cultural events and local businesses to its unique story and community values.

One of the key improvements was the creation of a well-structured sitemap. Previously, there was no clear distinction between dining locations and retail shops, which made it harder for users to find what they were looking for. We reorganized the site architecture to offer clearer, more intuitive navigation, helping visitors quickly locate restaurants, shops, and services based on their needs.

Design With Purpose and Personality

We used Webflow for flexible, responsive layouts, and Figma for collaborative interface design. The aesthetic direction was inspired by architectural and cultural elements from the district itself, blending history with contemporary design.

More than just a visual redesign, the new site functions as a central point of connection for residents, visitors, and business owners. It allows users to easily explore upcoming events, discover local businesses, and understand the district’s evolution.

The result is a site that supports the Van Aken District’s mission to be more than just a place — it’s a destination, a community, and a story in motion.