Located at 5516 Maple Heights Road in Shadyside, Okobi says the Mansion what he classifies as a boutique hotel is conveniently located and within walking distance of Carnegie Mellon University and Chatham University, and is within a mile of the University of Pittsburgh and Carlow University. It is also within walking distance to Walnut Street and less than a mile from Bakery Square.
Known on an international level, Okobi says guests throughout the years have included politicians and dignitaries from foreign countries, entertainers of all levels and people from all walks of life. He and his general manager Shawn Keefer recall that actors George Segal and the late Jill Clayburgh were some of their first guests. “When people come here they come for privacy it doesn’t matter if they are using the facility locally or from out of town,” Okobi mentioned.
Currently the three floor Mansion consists of five fully renovated bedroom suites with amenities. The Executive, Berger, Gardenveiw, Shadyside and Keefer. Okobi’s goal is to expand the suites to nine.
The Executive Suite includes a king-sized bed, a separate living /dining room, a Jacuzzi tub and steam room, a 55-inch HDTV in the bedroom, 47-inch HDTV in the living room, a third television in the bathroom, DirectTV, free Wi-Fi and an in-room coffee maker.
The Berger Suite features a king-sized bed, a full bathroom, a walk-in closet and a 47” HDTV. The Gardenview overlooks the Mansion’s landscaped courtyard and features two queen-sized beds, a full bathroom, and a 50” HDTV. The Shadyside, the Mansion’s second largest room features two double beds, a full bathroom, and a 47” HDTV. The Keefer Suite is nestled in the corner of the third level of the Mansion giving extra privacy. It features a queen-sized bed, a full bathroom, a large walk-in closet and 40” HDTV.
All suites are air conditioned with free Wi-Fi, offer premium television channels, have daily housekeeping services, complimentary toiletries, a hair dryer, clock radio and an iron and ironing board on request. A full breakfast with an extensive menu that can accommodate those with special dietary needs is included in the room rate. Upon request other perks include executive airport pick-up and in-room massages. “Our goal is to provide the services to make each guest comfortable and feel at home,” Okobi explained.
Greeted by style and elegance from the time one enters the gates, the mansion offers an impressive ambiance. The interior is detailed with dark oak paneling and hard wood floors. The library, foyer and landing of the grand master staircase are designed with leaded glass and stained glass windows which illuminate the area with light. The large living room now used as the business center is adorned with regal crown molding and an ornate limestone fireplace. The dining room has many period details including a cleverly hidden speakeasy that was used to hide liquor during Prohibition.
Even though the mansion is labeled as a bed and breakfast, Okobi, says that the facility is perfect for local use. He mentioned that it is often used for corporate events, receptions and for women and couple weekend getaways.
A native Pittsburgher, Okobi was educated at a boarding school for boys in New York. A graduate of Purdue University he majored in television production and English American Cinema with a focus in news broadcasting. He was a 4-year starter at Purdue at right guard from 1997 to 1999 and played center in 2000. He played center for the New Orleans Saints Quarterback Dree Brees.
In the 2001 NFL draft Okobi was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers as the 15 pick in the fifth round. During his Steeler career he played center and contributed to the teams Super Bowl 40 win. In 2007 he played for the Arizona Cardinals and retired from the Houston Texans in 2008.
“I always knew that football wasn’t going to be my life’s work. In life you always have to strive to get better by using all experiences and challenges that come your way.” Admitting that running the bed and breakfast has come with its challenges, he says it has strengthened him to be a better entrepreneur.
Other ventures he is involved in includes a record label with rapper Pittsburgh Slim who was the first local rapper signed with Jay-Z. Demonstrating his acting skills, Okobi has had roles in numerous movies as well as commercials including ESPN, Campbell’s Chunky Soup, and the Pennsylvania Lottery.
Aiming to leverage his life experiences and resources, Okobi is focused on starting a non-profit organization. “It’s all about education. I want to work with young people to teach them how to become entrepreneurs. In ten years he hopes not only to have shared his entrepreneur experiences but to be a philanthropist. One of his first tasks is to serve as a mentor and speaker to the Black Male Leadership Development Institute a project of the Urban League of Pittsburgh and Robert Morris University.
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