Yes, the entrance is in an alley. Yes, there is an abandoned lot across the alley with evidence that it was previously used as a homeless camp. Yes, the apartment is located in a garage and you can hear when the roll up door opens. However, these elements did not negatively inflect upon my experience at all. The place was super clean, nicely designed, very quiet and peaceful, with all the comforts of home. Excellent location for walking to RiNo. I would definitely stay here again.