Eyecandy of the week

This property once served as a corner grocery, built in the 1920s by Anna and Michael Scieszka, who had recently emigrated from Poland. The simple wood-framed building sat a few steps above the sidewalk on a rusticated concrete block foundation. Like many small, family-owned groceries of the era, the building supplied the needs of its immediate neighborhood with fresh groceries and produce.

Deliveries were even offered.

The building was sold in 1958, continuing use as a grocery and later a beauty salon and a busienss equipment store. Unfortunately, it fell into disrepair and in 2008 was featured as a City Pulse Eyesore. At that time, the storefront was blocked with a large ramp, while peeling paint and dense weeds characterized the former grocery. Although its owner had indicated that the structure was scheduled to be converted to an art gallery or bookstore, the property was foreclosed and demolished in 2013.

Neighbors banded together and created the garden on the site. Donations were collected from far and near, nurturing the welcome transformation. According to a descendant of the property’s original owners, the garden still needs another season to fully flourish. However, it is a decided improvement over the derelict building.

— Dan E. Bollman, AIA (City Pulse reader Marion L. Cornett contributed to this story)

“Eye candy of the Week” is our weekly look at some of the nicer properties in Lansing. It rotates each with Eyesore of the Week. If you have a suggestion, please e-mail eye@lansingcitypulse.com or call Andy Balaskovitz at 999-5064.